It’s summertime here in Virginia, and everyone is looking to spend more time outdoors. Warmer weather means more opportunities for picnics, barbecues, pool parties, and more. Unfortunately, it also means the return of the wasp season. Paper wasps, yellow jackets, and mud daubers are three common summertime wasps you need to keep an eye out for. It can be difficult to identify these wasps, which is why the team at Loyal Termite & Pest Control is here to provide you with information. As always, it’s important to take caution around wasps, especially when you have a nest nearby.

3 Summertime Wasps

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are known for their nests, and can deliver a nasty sting. Here’s what to know about this summertime wasp:

• They are similar in body shape to yellow jackets, but are mostly brown in color with yellow markings.
• These wasps are known for the papery nests they build, which look like upside-down umbrellas.
• Paper wasp nests often hang from tree branches and twigs, as well as porch ceilings and door railings. They typically contain up to 30 wasps.
• Paper wasps aren’t as aggressive as yellow jackets, but they may sting to defend their nests. Their sting is known to be especially potent.

Yellow Jackets

These wasps are notoriously aggressive and very common, especially in the late summer. Some things to know about yellow jackets include:

• Yellow jackets congregate in colonies of up to or more than 1,000 workers.
• Their nests look globe-shaped and are built above ground, often near garages, sheds, and more.
• Yellow jackets will not bother you unless they feel threatened, in which case they may sting repeatedly.
• Yellow jackets can be best identified by the yellow and black horizontal stripes that run across their bodies.

Mud Daubers

As their name implies, mud daubers are known for constructing their nests out of mud. Although mud daubers are less aggressive than the previously mentioned wasps, it’s important to know how to identify them:

• They are mostly black in appearance but may have light-colored markings. Mud daubers can be identified by their thin, thread-like waist.
• Nests are usually located in covered areas such as porch ceilings, sheds, and attics.
• These wasps are less social than other types, often preferring to be solitary.
• Mud daubers aren’t as aggressive and will only sting when directly handled or threatened.

How to Prevent Wasps in the Summertime

Wasps are a normal part of life, especially in the summer. It’s important to keep an eye out for nests forming on or near your property. When outdoors, there are several things you can do to keep wasps at bay. Keep food and drinks indoors, seal your trash cans, and know where to look for nests near your property. Never swat at a stinging insect, as this could make it more likely to sting you! If you see a nest or wasp problem forming, contact the wasp control team at Loyal. Our wasp removal is safe and quick to bring you peace of mind.