What is the most dangerous wasp? Most people would assume that it is the yellow jacket. This pest has a bad reputation and is considered by most to be the most aggressive and problematic species of wasp in our area. We are here today to find out how much truth this holds and to break down some safe and non-invasive strategies to remove nests made by these pests from your yard. Here is everything you need to know about yellow jackets in Salt Lake City.
Are Yellow Jackets The Most Dangerous Wasps?
Yellow jackets are dangerous pests that should be respected. That said, they are not as aggressive as many make them out to be. This is to say, they won’t go out of their way to sting you. The only time yellow jackets attack is when they feel like something is threatening them or their nest. If you didn’t know, yellow jackets are one of a few wasp species that sometimes build their homes underground. These nests are difficult to see and are regularly stepped on by unsuspecting wanderers.
How Painful Are Yellow Jacket Stings?
There is no biological way to identify the pain a sting will cause. The best thing we have to determine this is the Shmidt pain index. If you don’t know who Dr. Shmidt is, he is a scientist who decided to let himself be stung by a variety of venomous insects and rated the pain he felt on a scale of one to four. It’s not a perfect science, but here is what he determined. Fire ants fall under a 1.0, yellow jackets fall under a 2.0, paper wasps are at 3.0, and bullet ants are one of the few pests at 4.0. In short, yellow jacket stings hurt, but not as bad as some other local pests.
What Attracts Yellow Jackets To Properties?
Yellow jackets live on a diet of insects and sugar- or protein-rich substances and look for areas to build nests that are around these food sources. Some things that make your property more susceptible to a yellow jacket infestation include an influx of pest activity, honeydew on plants, fallen fruits and berries, left-out beverages/food, and pet food.
How To Deter Yellow Jackets From Settling On Your Property
If your property does not already have a yellow jacket nest on it, now is the time to act to make sure these pests don’t move in, in the future. To do this, here is what you need to do:
Fill in holes around your property.
Install a fence around your yard and garden to deter ground pests like gophers and voles.
Eliminate aphids that are creating honeydew on vegetation around your property.
Clean up thoroughly after outdoor gatherings and be careful not to leave out food or drinks.
Pick up fruits and berries that fall into your yard.
Feed your pets indoors, or clean out their bowls immediately after every meal.
Make sure your window/door screens are in good condition.
What To Do If You Spot A Yellow Jacket Nest On Your Property
The last thing we want is for you to try to handle a yellow jackets' nest on your own and get injured. For this reason, we offer complete wasp control services at Pest Pro Pest Control. Our goal is to provide residents around Salt Lake City with the highest-quality pest control services possible at a price that won’t break your bank. Contact us today to have yellow jackets safely removed from your property or to discuss our home pest control or commercial pest management options with one of our friendly service representatives.