Yellow Jackets

Common stinging pests, yellow jackets are black with yellow markings and are sometimes mistaken for bees. Female yellow jackets are about half an inch long, though queens are slightly bigger. The workers grow between 3/8 and 5/8 of an inch long. Yellow jackets have long antennae and anchor- shaped markings on their abdomens.

Avoid wearing scented lotions, perfumes, and hair products when spending time outside because they attract yellow jackets. If picnicking, never leave sugary drinks unattended and bring lids for all food containers. Finally, seek medical aid if stung in the mouth or throat, stung more than ten times, or if allergic to yellow jackets.

Do yellow jackets harm people or property?
Aggressive and territorial by nature, yellow jackets pose serious threats to people. Since their nests are often built into the ground, people tend to step on them by accident. Yellow jackets will then sting. Unlike bees, they are able to do so repeatedly.

Are yellow jackets known to enter homes or yards?
Since they often construct their nests in yards, there is a possibility that yellow jackets will enter houses. Keeping garbage bins covered and away from doors and windows helps prevent the pests from getting inside. Also, homeowners should keep doors and windows shut unless properly screened. Homeowners can sometimes find yellow jackets in soffit spaces just beneath the roof. If the pests are able to get inside, yellow jackets in attic spaces may construct nests that prove difficult to remove.

Yellow jackets are found throughout North America. They are ground-nesting insects, so they often live in rodent burrows. Parks, yards, wooded areas, and fields are some of their favorite habitats.

Since yellow jackets are so aggressive and dangerous, individuals should never at tempt to flush out hives. Instead, contact professional pest control services. Critter Control specialists are trained to safely remove yellow jackets from yards.