Wasp and Yellowjacket Basics

Wasps and yellowjackets are quite fearsome insects.  Most people give them a wide berth for good reason.  Sometimes though, they will take up residence close to your home and can be quite difficult to avoid.  Unlike bees, wasps and yellow jackets can sting repeatedly without dying.  This makes them particularly dangerous for people who are allergic to their venom.

There are two main types of wasps; social and solitary.  Solitary wasps usually go about their business as long as you leave them alone.  Social wasps will react aggressively if you approach their nests however.  They usually build their nests in holes in the ground or use mug to build them in other locations.

If you spot a nest in an unwelcomed location, then you will certainly want to get rid of it as soon as possible.  One of the easiest ways is to use a pressurized can of wasp killer to do the job.  It is best to spray the nest at night since most of them will be home around that time.

It is also important for you to dress appropriately for the job.  Needless to say, you are at risk of being stung if you stick around very long after spraying them.  You should wear a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of long pants and get out of the area as soon as possible after spraying the nest.

Once you are confident they have all been killed, you can wrap the nest in a plastic bag and toss it in the trash.  If you do not have any wasp killer, you can also use citrus oil extract in a spray bottle.  It will kill them on contact.

Yellowjackets are also social insects.  Their colonies can number in the thousands and they are very aggressive if you disturb their nest.  As mentioned, they can sting repeatedly and many of them will be around to do so.

You can apply insecticide in risky areas around your home to keep a colony from getting established.  If there is already one, you can use the same method used to get rid of wasps.  Make sure you do it at night and wear protective gear too.

One good thing about wasps and yellowjackets is they are predatory and will feed on insects you probably do not want around your home.  However, you probably do not want them around either because most people are afraid of being stung.  Simply buy a can of wasp and hornet spray and use it on the nest at night while wearing protective gear to stay safe.