Danger Afoot: Be on Alert for Hidden Wasp Nests

Ouch!  You’re gardening or playing with your kids in your yard, and then… you stumble upon a wasp nest and are attacked by numerous wasps. Next stop is the ER. Not only is a wasp attack extremely painful - it can also be dangerous to your health.

During the late summer and early fall months, wasp activity reaches its peak as their natural food sources decline. So, they venture elsewhere for their sugar fix. These miniature powerhouses of nature can quickly turn a pleasant outdoor experience into a painful encounter.

Wasps build their nests underground, which makes them difficult to spot and a serious danger if inadvertently stepped on or mowed over. It’s extremely important to be aware of this potential hazard that might be lurking in your own backyard.

Here are our JP McHale Pest Expert Tips for identifying hidden wasp nests on your property:

• Beware of a constant stream of wasps entering and exiting an opening in the ground.
• Look out for skunks lurking nearby as they consider the underground nest a tasty food source.
• Loud buzzing can be a sign of a hidden nest since wasps buzz very loudly while building their nest.
• You may be able to spot some of the materials that wasps use to construct their nests such as a papery substance made from chewed wood fibers or mud.

If you find a nest, DO NOT try treating it on your own! This requires the expertise of a pest management professional for safe and effective removal. For more information on our Stinging Insect Protection and Management, call (833) 269-7643 or email sales@nopests.com.