Cockroaches: A Hidden Danger in the Home

Cockroaches are a hidden danger inside Henrico VA homes - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlHere in Virginia, we deal with many types of pests year-round. Many people assume that cockroaches are a spring and summer pest problem, but they are actually common all year long. Cockroaches are more than just a household nuisance; they are also a significant danger in the home. Believe it or not, cockroaches can pose a health threat to humans by spreading many different types of bacteria that can cause asthma and allergy symptoms, especially in children. Due to the dangers they can bring into your property, it’s crucial to know how to stay safe from cockroaches. Loyal Termite & Pest Control is here to help!

Why Are Cockroaches Dangerous?

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) reports that cockroaches are known to spread diseases like Salmonella by picking up germs on the spines of their legs. Furthermore, their saliva and droppings contain allergen proteins known to cause allergy flare-ups and increase asthma symptoms. During the colder months, the threat for accumulated cockroach allergens is elevated because people spend more time indoors, thus increasing their chances of encountering cockroaches. Because cockroaches can be potentially harmful for you and your family members, the best thing to do is to learn how to prevent them!

How to Stay Safe From the Dangers of Roaches

Roaches prefer warm, moist places with available food sources, so it’s important to eliminate those attractive environments. Some of the top cockroach prevention tips include the following.

  1. Clean your kitchen. Roaches will gladly feast on food crumbs and spillage in your kitchen. Clean up after mealtimes to keep them away.
  2. Fix leaky pipes and avoid excess moisture. Attracted to moisture, cockroaches will assemble in damp areas created by plumbing problems in the home.
  3. Seal cracks and crevices. Roaches can squeeze inside through small holes. Use caulk to seal cracks and holes that permit entry into your property.
  4. Eliminate their food sources. Keep all of your food stored in airtight sealed containers to limit food sources to roach populations.
  5. Pick up pet food from the floor. If you tend to leave out pet food 24/7, you should think twice. Pet food is a common contributor to pest and roach problems.
  6. Declutter your property. Roaches will gladly hide in dark, damp corners of your property. Avoid clutter and regularly clean your surroundings.
  7. Be wary of cardboard boxes. Cockroaches are known to live in and breed in cardboard boxes. Be cautious when moving them and consider using plastic tubs for storage instead.
  8. Take out garbage regularly. Don’t let cockroaches ravage your trash: make sure to take it out regularly and secure it in a bin with a tight-fitting lid.

Cockroach Prevention in VA

If a cockroach infestation is suspected, it is recommended you contact a licensed pest professional. Roaches can be more dangerous than you think. The team at Loyal can help—call our roach exterminators today to learn how!

Afraid of Rodents and Bugs? 2021 May Not Be Your Year

Loyal termite and pest controlEntomologists from Loyal’s parent company, Rentokil Provide their Pest Predictions for 2021

READING, Penn. (Jan. 4, 2021) — As if 2020 didn’t present enough challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 could be a banner year for pests around the country.

To help residents prepare for 2021, entomologists from Rentokil used field knowledge and data to provide their predictions for pests in the upcoming year.

1. Rodents, Rodents Everywhere:

With shutdowns across the country, it’s no surprise that rodents are on the rise nationwide. Empty buildings, the scarcity of food and warmer winters have combined to create a rodent apocalypse.

“We’re seeing more rats in urban, suburban and rural settings because of the shutdowns,” said Marc Potzler, Board Certified Entomologist. “Food sources are cut off, and rats are having to travel to scavenge for food. We’ve seen rats out in public during the day, which is highly unusual.”

Warmer winters have also allowed for mice populations to boom in residential areas as it allows for a longer breeding season and there is a lower population loss due to hard freezes.

“Right now is the perfect time to rodent-proof your home,” said Potzler. “Make sure to repair any gaps on the exterior of your home, such as around garage doors, windows or pipes.”

2. Mosquitoes on the Move:

Mosquitoes populations have been increasing over the last few years. Aedes species, which are disease-carrying mosquitoes, are also moving to new areas. These mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Zika virus, among other diseases.

“There is an increase of mosquitoes across the country, but notably on the West Coast, and they are adapting each year,” said Eric Sebring, Associate Certified Entomologist. “We have seen evidence of behavior adaptation, where mosquitoes lay their eggs strategically to hatch throughout the season.”

Protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes by removing any standing water on your property. Mosquitoes can breed in as little as one teaspoon of water. Also, wear EPA-approved insect repellent while spending time outside.

3. Bed Bugs:

The chatter about bed bugs was quiet in 2020, but that’s not because they have gone away.

“As people begin to travel again, we will start to hear about bed bug infestations,” said Sebring. “Bed bugs can be dormant for several months at a time, so they can emerge when a food source, humans, become available.”

Bed bugs are considered hitchhikers, traveling from place to place on people, luggage, clothing and other personal belongings. Homeowners and businesses such as hotels, colleges, hospitals, senior living facilities, retail stores, and libraries have experienced problems with bed bugs.

If traveling, inspect the bed by pulling back the sheets to examine the mattress. Check your luggage before packing and unpacking, and look for signs of living or dead bugs the size of an apple seed or black fecal smears.

4. More Time Outdoors = More Pests.

From hiking to gardening to dining al fresco, there is no doubt that the pandemic has forced people to spend more time outdoors.

In 2021, we will see the outdoor pest pressures continue:

Ticks: Ticks are responsible for transmitting several diseases, including Lyme disease, to humans and animals. These small insects are found in grassy areas and in the woods, so it is important to inspect yourself and your pets after spending time outdoors. Cover as much skin as possible while outdoors, wear long pants, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks. Light-colored clothing will also help any ticks you pick up stand out.

Ants: “As soon as the weather starts to warm up, we will see an increase in ant populations,” said Tom Dobrinska, Board Certified Entomologist. “Most of the ants we are dealing with are odorous house ants. When spending time outside, make sure to clean up any food, water or sugary substances and ensure that your home is free of any holes or cracks for them to enter.”

Stinging Insects: Stinging insects, such as wasps and yellow jackets, emerge at the first sign of warm weather, and as warm weather seasons are getting longer, stinging insects have more time to create issues. Make sure you check for nests early in the spring as they are smaller and get early nest treatment. Make sure to keep windows and doors shut, and secure outside bins so stinging insects are not attracted to the contents.

5. Termites Aren’t Going Anywhere

Termites are a pesky problem, and unfortunately, are not going anywhere. Termites can cause extensive damage to structures, especially homes. As people are moving out of cities during the pandemic to more suburban areas, education about termite protection is key.

“We received more calls for termites this past year than we have in many years,” said Potzler. “It’s important to raise awareness for homeowners now to have proactive protection to keep from costly repairs in the future.”

6. Pests in the News:

There are a few pests that will continue to steal the limelight in 2021.

The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is an invasive pest that has been making its way across the country since it was first introduced from Asia in 2001. Besides its pungent odor, this stink bug has become a nuisance for homeowners as it gathers in large numbers on the sides of houses and buildings and enters through small cracks in the home. “The brown marmorated stink bug is here to stay,” said Dobrinska. “We will continue to see this species emerge in late spring in large numbers.”

The Spotted Lanternfly will continue to wreak havoc across the Northeast and beyond. The invasive pest, first found in Pennsylvania in 2014, is spreading across the Northeast, with New York reporting its first sighting this year. The pest can significantly damage trees and plants.

“The Spotted Lanternfly is becoming a big problem in the Northeast, and it will continue to spread,” said Potzler. “It can be devastating for agriculture and is a nuisance for homeowners.”

The egg masses look like a smear of mud on trees and outside of homes. It’s important to scrape the egg mass off, put it in a bag with rubbing alcohol and throw it away, and then call the state department of agriculture.

The infamous “Murder Hornet,” also known as the Asian giant hornet, grabbed many headlines, causing homeowners to panic trying to decipher the difference between stinging insects in their yards and this aggressive species. The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, growing up to 3 inches in length. Currently, the Asian giant hornet has only been found in the Pacific Northwest.

“We know that there was one colony found and eliminated in Washington State,” said Sebring. “Unfortunately, if there is one, there will be more.”

While your chances of being stung by an Asian giant hornet are fairly low, the sting can be dangerous as the venom volume is higher, causing more pain. The hives are primarily built underground or in hollows in trees. If you suspect it is an Asian giant hornet or any stinging pests, call your pest management provider to assess the situation as soon as you spot activity.

Rat or Mouse: Which One Do You Have?

Identifying rats or mice in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlRats and mice are two of the most common pest problems here in the Richmond VA area. A rodent infestation can be bad no matter which type of rodent you’re dealing with! Rats and mice may share similar characteristics and habits, but they are different in a number of ways. For example, mice tend to breed at a more rapid rate than rats. Because both of these rodents can cause such destruction and bring dangers into your home or business, it’s important to know what you’re facing. At Loyal Termite & Pest Control, we want to inform our customers about the differences between rats and mice. Keep reading to learn more!

What Are the Signs of Rats and Mice?

Rodents are unlike other pests in that they make their presence known pretty quickly. The most common signs you have rats or mice in your home include foul odors, odd noises, gnaw marks, chewed up nests, burrows or tunnels, and droppings or urine spots. Besides being a nuisance to get rid of, rats and mice alike are dangerous due to their ability to transmit some of the world’s worst diseases. As soon as you spot the signs of rats or mice, it’s crucial to contact your local rodent exterminator to further investigate.

All About Mice

Mice are known to be much smaller than rats, but their differences don’t stop there. Some of the traits that set mice apart from rats are as follows.

  • Mice are typically no more than 4 inches in length,
  • Mice often have larger ears and tails compared to their body size.
  • Mice droppings have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
  • A mouse population can reproduce at a faster rate with 5–10 litters a year and up to 14 mice in each litter.
  • Mice are omnivores but mostly feed on seeds, grains, and fruits.

Mouse and rat identification in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest Control

5 Rat Facts

We all know that rats are bigger than mice. They differ in a number of other ways as well:

  • Rats can be up to 9 inches in length, tail not included.
  • Rats have small, hairy ears and larger feet.
  • Their droppings are much bigger than those of mice at 10–20 mm long.
  • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
  • Rats are opportunistic feeders that will eat meats, grains, seeds, and much more.

What Are the Signs You Have a Rat or Mouse Problem?

When rats or mice infest your home, they leave behind many signs of their presence. Common signs you have rats or mice in your home include foul odors, odd noises, gnaw marks, chewed up nests, burrows or tunnels, and droppings or urine spots. Besides being a nuisance to get rid of, rats and mice alike are dangerous due to their ability to transmit some of the world’s worst diseases. Rats and mice leave some of the same signs of their activity–if you see these signs, it’s time to enlist the help of a professional rodent exterminator.

Rat and Mouse Infestations in Virginia

If you think you are dealing with rats or mice, it’s best to call your local rodent control team at Loyal. We are committed to keeping you and your family safe from the dangers both of these pests can bring into your home year-round. Contact us today to learn more!

Rodent Infestations Are On The Rise

Rodents are entering Henrico VA homes during the pandemic - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlAs if you didn’t already have enough to worry about in 2020, rodent infestations are currently on the rise. With Rodent Awareness Week upon us, now is the time to learn how to protect your property from rats and mice infestations. The pandemic is one of the leading causes of the rise in rodent problems due to restaurant closures. Rodents that once relied on restaurants and bars for food were suddenly deprived of their main resource. And now with the weather changing, they will be drawn inside your own Virginia home not only to escape dropping temperatures outside but to look for food. Keep reading to learn all about the plight of rodents during the pandemic and what you can do to prevent them.

Are Rodents Connected to COVID-19?

There has been a lot of information spread about how rodents are connected to the coronavirus. The good news is that there is no current evidence or research to show that rodents are transmitting SARS-CoV-2 to humans. Due to the restaurant shutdowns and lockdowns, there have been several reported cases of rats and mice becoming more bold and rampant in the absence of food sources.

While they won’t transmit COVID-19 to you or your family, rodents still can spread other diseases including hantavirus, salmonellosis, and more. They also can cause structural damage by their nesting and chewing habits. The main concern with rodents right now is their aggressive behavior and abundant populations getting into homes.

Here’s How to Prevent Rodents in 2020

To keep these aggressive rodents far away from your home, you have to make your property less conducive to an infestation! Some of our best tips include:

  1. Put outdoor garbage bags in metal garbage cans with securely fitted lids to stop them from feeding on contents.
  2. Seal off cracks and crevices around openings. Mice can squeeze inside dime-sized holes
  3. Securely store all food in metal or glass containers with tight-fitting lids.
  4. Clean inside the house and around the garden. Less clutter means fewer places to hide.
  5. Clean up pet food and bird seed debris, and store pet food in robust containers with fitted lids, preferably above ground level.
  6. If you have a compost heap don’t include organic food waste, as this will attract them.
  7. Inspect your garage, attic, crawlspaces, and vents for potential rodent hiding spots.

Year-Round Rodent Control

Rodent Awareness Week allows our team to focus on the dangers of rodents, which seems more important than ever during the current pandemic. For more information or assistance preventing rats and mice on your property, our rodent exterminators are here to help. Call us today!

Don’t Let These Pests Ruin Your Halloween!

Spiders are one of many pests that can invade Virginia homes in the fall - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlRats, spiders, and bats—oh my! You may gladly hang up spooky webs and fake spiders as decorations this Halloween, but you certainly don’t want the real thing infesting your home. A few pests in particular are very common this time of year. Infestations are also common right now as you start to pull out boxes containing all your seasonal decorations. To keep pest problems from ruining your Halloween festivities, the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control is here to shed light on creepy-crawly pests to keep an eye out for.

Common Pests During Halloween Time

Pest infestations in the fall months are very common. This is due to the fact that many pests begin to seek shelter indoors to escape the impending drop in temperature outdoors. Here are the pests to look out for this season:

  1. Rats. Rodents infamously squeeze their way inside this time of year for warmth, food, and shelter. They could be nesting in your boxes of decorations.
  2. Spiders. Spider populations are abundant in the fall and many get indoors. They may be lurking in your box of decorations!
  3. Bed bugs. While common at all times of the year, traveling or college students lead to an increase in infestations. They also could be found on second-hand costumes.
  4. Stink bugs & boxelder bugs. These seasonal bugs appear on the sides of homes and could crawl indoors if given the chance.

How to Prevent Pests This Halloween

You may be putting fake rodents or bats out as decorations, but you definitely want to prevent the real ones from getting indoors! As you would any other time of the year, it’s important to implement preventative measures to keep fall pests away. This includes sealing all cracks and crevices in your home with caulk, installing new window or door screens, cleaning up your yard’s foliage, keeping a tidy kitchen with sealed food containers, and storing all seasonal decorations in airtight plastic bins. If you are having trouble sealing off your home to pests this fall, it’s often best to contact your local pest control expert for more prevention tips and tricks.

Seasonal Pest Control

The last thing you have time to deal with this holiday season is a pest infestation. Always be extra cautious when unpacking your decorations or buying secondhand items. If you find yourself with an infestation or want to further protect your Virginia home from seasonal pests hibernating in your home, the residential exterminators at Loyal are happy to help. 

Boxelder & Stink Bugs on the Side of Your Home

Stink bugs are a common fall invader in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlIn the fall, pests and insects begin to prepare for the colder months ahead. This is why there’s always a flux in pest infestations this time of year! Some of the most common insects that people begin to see every autumn here in the Henrico VA area are boxelder bugs and stink bugs. These insects are of course most infamous for the odorous smell they emit when crushed or threatened. However, they’re also infamous for their habit of congregating on the sides of buildings as they soak up the sunshine during shorter days. This may be an eye-sore, but the real problem begins if and when they squeeze their way into your home. The exterminators at Loyal Termite & Pest Control are here with need-to-know information about these pesky fall invaders.

Stink Bugs in the Fall

Stink bugs arrived from Asia in the 1980s and are now a common pest around the country. Their backs look like shields, and they can blend easily within foliage. If threatened, these bugs release an odor. There are two main types we see in the states: the brown marmorated stink bug and the green stink bug. Besides being a nuisance, stink bugs are of little harm to people. However, their rapid rate of reproduction makes them worrisome if they get indoors!

Are Boxelder Bugs Harmful?

The boxelder bug is best identified by its unique red markings on its dark body. They are mostly found in boxelder, ash, and maple trees, but also live and feed off of trees with fruit. Even more so than the stink bug, these insects will be drawn to sunny sides of buildings. They only live for a few days or up to a week, but their large populations make them appear to be more of a threat. While very rare, there have been instances in which boxelder bugs bite.

Fall pest prevention in Virginia - Loyal Pest Control

 

Prevention Tips for Fall Invaders

Luckily, preventing these insects can also help prevent other types of pests from getting access to your home this fall and winter. Here’s how to keep boxelder & stink bugs out: 

  1. Check the caulk around the molding of the windows and vents.
  2. Seal up cracks around roof soffits, windows, siding, and foundation.
  3. Clean out any debris around the foundation of the house.
  4. Trim back trees and bushes to keep all vegetation away from the perimeter of the home.
  5. Clean and repair the corners of fences, decorative rocks, old piles of wood, and patio furniture.
  6. Replace torn screens on windows and doors or install brand-new ones.
  7. Consider using low-pressure sodium exterior lighting, as UV rays attract these bugs.

How to Get Rid of Boxelder & Stink Bugs

If you already have an infestation in your property, it’s best to contact your local residential exterminator for assistance. The team at Loyal can help get rid of stink bugs and boxelder bugs as well as seal off your home from future invaders. Contact us today to learn more!

2 Dangerous Spiders in the Fall

Black widows are one of two dangerous spiders in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlHave you noticed more spiders in or around your home recently? In the late summer and early fall months, spiders certainly seem to be more active than ever. These eight-legged creatures typically hatch in the springtime. By the time autumn rolls around, they are in full force! Spiders are drawn into your Henrico area home in search for food, water, and shelter like any other type of pest. Thankfully, most of the spiders you’re going to encounter in your home are harmless. In fact, they likely want nothing to do with you! However, there are two dangerous spiders to keep an eye out for in the fall and all year long. Loyal Termite & Pest Control are here to share expert info on the black widow and brown recluse.

Black Widow vs Brown Recluse Infographic - Loyal Pest Control in Virginia How to Identify Black Widows and Brown Recluse Spiders

No one wants to get close enough to a spider to identify it! That said, it’s important to know about black widows and brown recluse spiders. Both of these spiders can bite when they feel  threatened, which can be dangerous. Here’s what to know about these potentially dangerous spiders:

  1. Black widows
    1. These spiders have a characteristic red hourglass shape on its body.
    2. They build sticky, tangled cobwebs in garages, sheds, and near the ground.
    3. They can bite when they feel threatened.
  2. Brown recluse spiders
    1. Brown recluse have a darker brown violin shape spot on their brown bodies.
    2. They build loose, dome-shaped webs for shelter.
    3. A brown recluse bite is known to be very painful.

How do Spiders Get Inside in the Fall?

Like any other pest, spiders can get inside through the tiniest of cracks in your home. Broken screens or crevices in your doors and windows often let spiders in. An unkempt yard or lawn will invite spiders to your property. You may also notice more spiders when you have other bugs and insects in your property. Spiders will be more drawn to properties that provide them with shelter and food (bugs) inside, which is why it’s so important to keep a clean and tidy home as much as possible.

Professional Spider Removal

Everyone sees a spider or two from time to time. So when is it time to enlist the help of a professional spider control company? At Loyal, our spider exterminators can quickly address current infestations as well as help you prevent future spider problems from happening.

Follow These Tips for a Pest-Free Patio

Tips for a pest-free* patio in your Henrico VA property - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlIt’s likely you are spending more time outdoors than ever this year. You’d also likely enjoy your outdoor living space more if you didn’t have to deal with pest problems! Pests may enjoy the Virginia summertime weather as much as you do, but that doesn’t mean you have to share your space with them.

At Loyal, we know how frustrating pests can be—especially when they ruin your backyard barbecue or gardening session. Following our commitment to keep our customers pest-free*, our experts are here to share top tips for a pest-free* patio and outdoor living area.

What Pests are Common in Your Backyard

The warm weather and longer days invite all types of insects to be out in full-force. Some pests are more of a nuisance than others, and some insects are more dangerous for you and your family! Here in Virginia, the most common pests you’ll see in your yard are mosquitoes, stinging insects (bees, wasps, and hornets), ants, spiders, ticks, fleas, and flies. Ticks and mosquitoes are especially concerning for their ability to transmit dangerous diseases to humans. For that reason alone, it’s crucial to learn how to keep pests away from your property.

Top Tips to Achieve a Pest-Free Patio

Everyone wants to be able to enjoy their time spent outside to be pest-free*. This is harder than it sounds, especially this time of year. There are a few ways you can make your property less appealing to pests. Our best tips for a pest-free* patio are:

  1. Remove any standing water. Stagnant water is one of the biggest attractants for mosquitoes.
  2. Keep your lawn and shrubs trimmed. Ticks and mosquitoes will shelter in overgrown vegetation or tall grass.
  3. Be on the lookout for ant hills. Even a tiny mound can contain thousands of ants inside.
  4. Inspect all wood structures. Wood-destroying pests (carpenter ants and termites) will damage your wooden decks or porches.
  5. Use an insect repellent. Most store-bought repellent containing DEET will help repel mosquitoes and ticks.
  6. Clean your patio or space regularly. Spills or leftover food will surely bring ants around.

Need Help With Outdoor Pest Control?

Pests and insects are to be expected when you’re outdoors. However, there’s no reason to let them ruin your time spent in your own backyard! The exterminators at Loyal are committed to keeping customers pest-free* not just inside their homes, but outside as well. Call our team today to learn more about our residential pest control services.

Do Cockroaches Like the Summer Heat?

Cockroaches are more common in the summer in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlAlthough cockroaches are a common pest throughout the year, they tend to be more common than ever in the summer months. This is because roaches are attracted to warmth and humidity (which is why they’re often found in kitchens and bathrooms). While roaches are considered to be hardy insects that can survive in a variety of climates, summertime is when they thrive here in the Henrico VA area. They can enter homes and, once inside, breed at rapid rates. Seeing even one cockroach is a bad sign there are many more nearby, making it important to know how to keep cockroaches out in the summer. The team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control are here with expert info on summer cockroach activity and tips for how to prevent it.

5 Tips to Keep Cockroaches Out This Summer

A cockroach problem, once established, can be very difficult to get rid of. For that reason, it’s best to know how to prevent them in the first place! Our top tips include:

  1. Inspecting the perimeter of your home and seal cracks and crevices. Seal windows and doors or install screens.
  2. Keeping a clean home. Wipe or clean up any spills or messes in kitchens and bathrooms. Avoid letting clutter pile up.
  3. Picking up pet food bowls after mealtimes. Try to avoid leaving food out overnight or for days at a time.
  4. Securely storing all food in tight-fitting airtight containers, and refrigerating unsealed food.
  5. Ensuring your garbage cans are sealed with a tight-fitting lid, and routinely take it out when needed.

Are Roaches More Common in the Summer?

Yes! Roaches are a problem all year long, but summertime is when we get the most calls about these pests. Many types of cockroaches will lie dormant during the winter to wait out the heat that summertime brings. Once summer rolls around, cockroaches breed at a more rapid rate, which is why infestations can explode in size. If they get indoors, they are likely to hide in dark, damp areas; this is why infestations can often grow out of hand before you realize there is a problem. The best thing you can do to avoid a summertime roach problem is work with an exterminator to keep them out to begin with.

Summer Roach Infestation Help

Cockroaches are known to be gross, but they can be downright dangerous, too. Cockroach infestations are known to trigger allergies in certain individuals. They also carry and spread potentially harmful germs and bacteria. For these reasons, it’s never wise to rely on DIY cockroach control. Always contact the licensed roach exterminators at Loyal for help with a summer roach problem.

What Do Different Wasp Nests Look Like?

Identifying wasp nests in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest ControlWasps are one of the most common summertime insects here in Virginia. Out in nature, wasps are a beneficial addition to our environment. However, they can become somewhat dangerous when their nests are built on homes or buildings. Certain wasp species become very aggressive, and will chase people. Most of them can sting repeatedly, which is very dangerous for anyone who is allergic to stings.  It’s important to learn how to identify different types of wasp nests that you may encounter this summer or fall. If you notice any of the below nests, exercise caution and try to avoid the nest at all costs. Keep reading to learn about what to look out for from the experts at Loyal Termite & Pest Control.

4 Wasps and Their Nests

Different types of wasps build different nests! In order to identify a wasp, it’s sometimes easiest to identify them through their nest. Here are the main characteristics of each: 

  1. Yellowjackets. These nests are made of a papery material and have a single opening. The inside of a yellowjacket nest can have up to 100 tiers of cells. Yellowjackets can also build underground nests that can be enormous in size.
  2. Paper wasps. Their nests famously look like upside-down umbrellas. These nests are often open, and can get quite large in size. They are typically supported by a single stalk and consist of a paper-like material.
  3. Mud daubers. Female wasps build their nests out of mud. The nests are small and tubular in size, often looking like organ pipes. They are typically found in cracks or crevices.
  4. Bald-faced hornets. These nests are almost always at least three feet off the ground. They are made of chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. They often grow to be the size of a football or basketball.

Types of wasp nests in Henrico VA - Loyal Termite & Pest Control

 

Top Wasp Nest Locations

Many people assume that wasp nests are primarily found in trees. However, certain wasps prefer other spots to build their nests. For example, paper wasp nests can be located under and within the eaves of structures, in attics and wall voids, and in other enclosed areas. Yellowjackets favor areas near the ground, in hollow trees, under porches, and a number of other areas. The bald-faced hornet builds its nest oftentimes in trees, bushes, or wooded areas. Mud daubers, as solitary wasps, built their nests for eggs in sheltered areas. They are often in areas that provide protection from any rain. In sum, a wasp nest can be built many different areas, making it important to know what to look out for.

Safe Nest Removal

Nests are dangerous, bottom line. Yellowjackets and bald-faced hornets in particular can be very aggressive and sting repeatedly if they feel their nest is at threat. DIY nest removal is never recommended and can endanger those around you. If you need a wap nest removed, always contact your local stinging insect control team at Loyal for help.