Wasp Identification & Prevention

What are wasps?

Wasps are a type of stinging insect. Some species live and work together in large colonies, while others are solitary and live on their own. When living outside and away from people and our homes, wasps are eco-important; they are predators and are responsible for keeping down the populations of nuisance insects. They are also responsible for pollinating plants and crops. These winged insects have pinched waists, six legs that hang down when in flight, and little or no body hair.

Listed below are the most common species of wasps living in North Carolina and South Carolina:

European paper wasp

This paper wasp is not native to the United States. European paper wasps are smaller than northern paper wasps. They are black and yellow and are often mistaken for yellow jackets.

German yellow jacket

These stinging insects are black and yellow, and their abdomens have a spade-shaped black mark. They also have a series of black spots down both sides of their abdomen.

Northern paper wasp

Northern paper wasps are a native species of paper wasps. Adults have yellow legs and cinnamon-colored markings on their abdomen.

Are wasps dangerous?

Most species of wasps are ready and willing to protect themselves and nests by delivering painful, venom-filled stings. German yellow jackets are extremely aggressive and will drive other animals away from areas. The venom that wasps inject in both people and animals is strong enough to trigger severe, sometimes life-threatening allergic reactions. Wasps are dangerous pests, and you should always be cautious around them. There are ways to get rid of wasps from your property, and professional pest control is one of the most effective ways to rid your property of these dangerous pests.

Why do I have a wasp problem?

Our yards, homes, other structures, trees, and woodpiles provide safe shelter for wasps to build their nests. Our gardens, outdoor eating areas, compost piles, and garbage offer places for these stinging insects to forage for food for themselves and their developing larvae.

Where will I find wasps?

Most wasp species prefer to live, hunt, and nest outside. Paper wasps place their nests up off the ground in trees, on utility poles, under decks, under roof eaves, and in the corners of door frames. German yellow jackets prefer to make their nests inside voids in homes and outbuildings, making them quite problematic for property owners.

How do I get rid of wasps?

If you are looking for pest control in the Fort Mill, SC area, turn to the local and experienced pest professionals at Aruza Pest Control. We offer home and business owners the benefits of comprehensive pest control, superior customer service, and the peace of mind that comes with our guaranteed services. Our eco-friendly solutions solve current pest problems and keep them from returning. For home and business owners who want to protect their property from wasps, contact Aruza Pest Control today!

How can I prevent wasps in the future?

Wasps live and breed outside. Preventing and controlling them can be a difficult task. However, with the help of the specialists at Aruza Pest Control and the following prevention tips, you can protect your home against wasps.

• Fix torn screens.

• Place weatherstripping around windows and doors.

• Repair any openings in your exterior walls or roofline.

• Place a tight-fitting cap on chimneys.

• Place vegetable gardens and woodpiles away from the exterior of your home.

• Trim back tree limbs, bushes, and shrubs from the exterior walls of your house.

• Keep tight-fitting lids on all trash cans, recycling bins, and compost bins.

• Limit the amount of flowering vegetation on your property.