Wasp Identification

What are wasps?

Wasps are a common type of stinging insect found in the Roseville and the greater Sacramento area. These insects have stingers on the end of their abdomens they use to paralyze their prey and defend themselves. A wasp's exact appearance depends on the species, though most wasps have a few similarities: they have a pinched waist, two pairs of wings, six long, skinny legs that dangle down when in flight, and their bodies are usually hairless.

Many species of wasps are predators that help control nuisance insects by feeding on them. They are also responsible for some pollination. When living outside, away from people and our homes, wasps are a valuable part of the ecosystem. The most common wasps in our area include paper wasps, mud daubers, and yellow jackets.

Are wasps dangerous?

Wasps can be very dangerous to people. Most wasps have smooth stingers and can sting their victims many times, injecting more venom with each sting. In addition to their painful stings, those sensitive to their venom experience allergic reactions or anaphylaxis. However, stinging insects are rarely a problem for people unless:

• Wasps have established a nest in, on, or near your home or outbuilding.

• You come too close to a stinging insect nest.

• You provoke them, whether attempting to remove a nest on your own or simply mowing your lawn.

Why do I have a wasp problem?

Wasps take any opportunity given to them to have their food, water, and shelter needs met. Unfortunately, most of our yards will provide them with their basic needs. Things like garbage cans, compost piles, grills, gardens, trees, shrubs, flowering vegetation, and gutters are found on most residential properties and attract wasps.

Where will I find wasps?

Wasps are mainly outdoor pests, although sometimes they will take advantage of an opening in a building and create their nest within a wall void. Wasps build their nests in a variety of places, including:

• Trees and utility poles

• Under decks and roof eaves

• The corners of door frames

• Woodpiles and rock crevices

• In the abandoned ground nests of small animals

• Behind wall voids and inside of chimneys

How do I get rid of wasps?

Partnering with the local pest control experts at Neighborly Pest Management is your best solution for home or business owners who want to get rid of wasps from their property. We are the Roseville and the greater Sacramento area's best defense against pests. For more than four decades, we've been committed to keeping homes and businesses free of insects, rodents, and more. Our professionals work with our customers to control wasp populations. Learn more about our 100% guaranteed pest control services by contacting Neighborly Pest Management today!

How can I prevent wasps in the future?

Partnering with a professional is the best way to prevent wasps and other pests problems. In addition, the following prevention tips will help to keep wasps off of your property and out of your Northern California home:

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

• Place woodpiles away from the house.

• Eliminate water sources by maintaining gutters and fixing leaky outdoor fixtures.

• Keep tight-fitting lids on all trash cans, recycling bins, and compost bins to prevent them from foraging for food.

• Limit the amount of flowering vegetation on your property.

• Inspect your home's exterior walls and roofline for openings and seal them.

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