When it comes to dealing with pests, especially ones that sting, safety is the number one priority. We understand that you want to get rid of wasps for good, and you may be tempted to take the quickest measures just to see them gone, but the pest control professionals at Plunkett’s do not recommend quick, DIY, wasp control methods.
Not only is it unsafe to get rid of wasps willy-nilly, it isn’t efficient. You want to get rid of the pests so they don’t come back. We hope the following guide will help you make the best decisions for your safety as well as future wasp prevention.
First thing’s first: identify the nest
Do you know what a wasp nest looks like? If not, it’s time to learn! Before you make the decision to remove a wasp nest, you need to be absolutely sure that wasps are the pests you are dealing with for two reasons:
1. Different types of insects require different types of removal techniques
2. Paper wasp nests look similar to types of bees nests that are protected by the Endangered Species Act. By not knowing the difference between a wasp nest and a bee nest, you could get stuck with a big fine.
How to Identify Different Types of Wasp Nests
1. Paper wasp nests
These are open nests where the combs are clearly visible. They resemble an inverted umbrella. They’re often found in sheltered areas like house eaves. Paper wasps are not normally very aggressive and will only attack if they feel threatened.
2. Yellow jacket nests
Yellow jacket nests are papery-looking and covered. They're usually found in enclosed spaces like wall voids. Yellow jackets also often create ground nests. Yellow jackets are quite aggressive, can sting multiple times, and will sometimes even chase their prey for up to a mile!
3. Bald-faced hornet nests
Bald-faced hornet nests are paper nests and are often found in tree trunks and wall cavities. These hornets will aggressively defend their nests.
How not to remove the nest
Now that you know what kind of wasp nest you’re dealing with, it’s important to know what not to do next. These are especially important to avoid if you or a family member are allergic to wasp stings. Do not:
1. Spray the Wasp Nest with Water
Using water to get rid of a wasp nest is ineffective for a couple reasons: it can cause damage to your property. it won’t get rid of the wasps. and there’s a good chance that they’ll begin to attack you. This method will do nothing but put you in more danger.
2. Burn the Wasp Nest
Burning a wasp nest is an unsuccessful way to get rid of a wasp problem. It may just make the wasps become violent. Plus, burning a wasp's nest is dangerous. Plain and simple. Wasp nests are extremely flammable due to the thin, papery substance they’re made out of—they’re so flammable that it can lead to your property starting on fire.
3. Knock it Down
If you have a wasp nest and you’re thinking about knocking it down… knock it off! The idea, not the nest, that is. Knocking down a wasp nest will put you in danger of being stung. It will simply aggravate the wasps, not get rid of them or prevent them.
How to Correctly Remove a Wasp Nest: Professional Pest Control
If you found a wasp nest on your property, there’s a good chance it made you feel uneasy, especially if you have young children or someone who is allergic to wasps in your family. Unfortunately, it’s not easy to remove a wasp nest yourself and we recommend hiring a professional pest control company to do it for you. This will ensure your safety and better prevent the wasps from coming back.
At Plunkett’s, we offer efficient and safe stinging insect services that include inspection, treatment, and removal of any active nests. We will then treat the areas of concern with a residual material to greatly reduce the likelihood of nest-building. We also offer a 60-day guarantee on all nests treated!
Don’t Let Wasps Get Comfortable—Get Help from Plunkett’s!
Our expert technicians have removed thousands of wasp nests and prevented them from returning. So, you can count on us to get rid of these stingers for good. If you have a wasp problem on or near your property, get in touch with us right away!
