wasps &
Hornets

Wasps and hornets
What are stinging insects?

Stinging insects are insects with stingers that they use to deliver a venom, either for defense or as a means to paralyze and subdue prey. There are many types of stinging insects that can be found at residential and commercial properties throughout the state of Idaho.

Two stinging insects that are common to Idaho and that you’re probably the most familiar with are paper wasps and bald faced hornets.

Paper wasps
Paper wasps get their name from the papery nests they build. They are brown with yellow markings, grow up to 3/4 of an inch long, and have antennae and long legs.
Bald faced hornets
Despite their name, bald-faced hornets are not true hornets; they are actually more closely related to yellow jackets. They are only referred to as a hornet due to their large size. Baldfaced hornets have a long, thin, wasp-like body; workers grow to between ½ and 5/8th of an inch in length; the queens are even larger in size. Baldfaced hornets are black in color except for an off-white color pattern that is found on the face, at the end of the abdomen, and on the thorax. These stinging insects make paper-like aerial nests.
Are stinging insects dangerous?
As their name suggests, stinging insects can sting, and are therefore, dangerous insects. Getting stung by a bee or wasp is a painful experience for most people, but for some, it can be life-threatening. If you have an allergy, these stings can cause major health problems or even death.
Why do I have a stinging insect problem?

Stinging insects typically build their nests on your property because you have several things that attract them to your property. They will look for food sources, such as flowering plants, fruit trees, and even garbage. They will need water to survive. Finally, they will need a place to build their nest. This could be almost anywhere, including the eaves of your roof, under your deck, or hanging from the branch of a tree.

Where will I find stinging insects?
Stinging insects can often be found in your garden enjoying your flowers. If you find a nest, there are sure to be stinging insects in and around it. They will be protective of it, so steer clear! Occasionally stinging insects will build a nest within the walls of your house, although this is less common than finding them outside.
How do I get rid of stinging insects?

If you find a nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it yourself. When they feel threatened, stinging insects will swarm and attack. In order to remove a nest without getting injured, contact the pest control experts at Super Nova Pest Control. We can take care of your paper wasp or hornet problem, leaving you sting-free!

How can I prevent stinging insects in the future?

In order to prevent stinging insects from choosing your property as their home, you need to make your yard unappealing to them. Here are some helpful prevention tips:

  • Reduce potential food sources, such as flowering plants, fruit trees, and garbage.
  • If you eat outdoors, cover your food and bring it indoors as soon as you’re done.
  • Eliminate excess moisture around your property.
  • Do frequent checks around your property for nests.
 

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