Wasps are aggressive, invasive, and you want them gone. However, if you have a wasp nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it yourself.
It’s not a mystery – paper wasps get their name from the paper-like material they use to make their nests. There are approximately 22 known paper wasps species in North America. Yellowjackets and hornets are similar stinging insects that are semi-social and live in small colonies.
If wasps have set up a nest near your home, you likely want to know what kind they are and what you should do about them. Titan Pest & Wildlife Solutions is here to help! This article answers some common questions people have about paper wasps.
What do paper wasps look like?
Paper wasps look similar to yellowjackets but are somewhat slimmer with a thin waist, six long legs, and an almost triangular side view. They have two wings and antennae. They are typically brown with some yellow coloration. Each species of paper wasps are brown and yellow, but each has different bands of colors and markings that separate them from the other.
What do their nests look like?
First, their nests look like upside-down umbrellas. In fact, paper wasps are also called umbrella wasps for this reason. The nests are generally open and get very large. They are supported by a single stalk and consist of a paper-like material.
Paper wasps build their nests from wood fibers they collect from plants, which they chew to form paper-like, hexagonal cells that come together to create their nest. Once made, each nest is only used once and completely abandoned in late fall.
Where are paper wasps likely to build their nests?
If paper wasps have built a nest around your home, there’s a good chance you’ll see it. They need to keep their nests protected, so they tend to develop in sheltered locations. Some of the most common areas you spot a paper wasp nest include:
- Porch ceilings
- Undersides of balconies, arches, and rails
- Under overhanging awnings and eaves
- Window corners
- Under porches and decks
- Inside gas grills
- In attics and crawl spaces
What is the best way to remove a paper wasp nest?
Paper wasps can be aggressive and dangerous when they feel provoked. They will vigorously defend their nest and chase you when they think their nests are in danger.
Many people are highly allergic to wasp stings and may experience severe symptoms when stung. However, whether you’re allergic or not, wasp stings are painful. Therefore, DIY wasp removal is generally not suggested. It is best to leave paper wasp nest removal to a professional. After evaluating the scenario, your pest control expert will customize a wasp prevention and control plan that suits your needs and budget.
Wasp Removal & Wasp Exterminator
Wasps and hornets are aggressive, invasive, and you want them gone. At Titan Pest & Wildlife, we want you and your family to stay safe and enjoy being outside in your yard. If you have a wasp nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as this is dangerous. Calling a professional St. Louis & St. Louis City wasp and hornet exterminator team will not only ensure that the procedure is done safely but it will also be done ethically.
You will find the answer to all your pest control needs. You can expect the best pest protection with customized services created by highly trained pest management technicians.
