Wasp Control

Paper wasps are slender, reddish-brown to black insects with yellow markings and long legs that dangle noticeably in flight. They get their name from the papery nests they build by chewing wood fibers into a pulp, often attaching them to eaves, porch ceilings, or other sheltered areas. Their nests are open and umbrella-shaped, with visible hexagonal cells. While paper wasps are generally less aggressive than yellowjackets, they will sting if they feel their nest is threatened. They also play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by feeding on caterpillars and other garden pests.

Yellowjackets are small, aggressive wasps with distinctive black and bright yellow markings and a sleek, shiny body. Unlike paper wasps, they often build enclosed nests that can be found underground, in wall voids, or in other hidden cavities. They are highly territorial and quick to sting when their nest is disturbed—and unlike bees, they can sting multiple times. Yellowjackets are scavengers that are especially attracted to meats, sweets, and sugary drinks, making them common pests at outdoor gatherings. Their aggressive behavior and painful stings make professional control essential when infestations are present.

Bald-faced hornets are large, aggressive wasps known for their striking black bodies with white markings on the face, giving them their name. Despite being called hornets, they are actually a type of yellowjacket. They build large, football-shaped paper nests high in trees, shrubs, or on buildings, which can house hundreds of workers. Bald-faced hornets are highly protective of their nests and will sting repeatedly if threatened, delivering painful stings. While they can help control other insects, their territorial nature and powerful sting make them a serious concern near homes and high-traffic areas.

Mud dauber wasps are solitary, non-aggressive insects known for building small, tube-like nests out of mud, often found on walls, ceilings, or under eaves. They are slender with long, narrow waists and typically black or metallic blue bodies, sometimes with yellow markings depending on the species. Unlike social wasps, mud daubers do not defend their nests aggressively and rarely sting. They are beneficial predators, feeding on spiders and other insects to provision their nests for their young. While their nests can be unsightly, mud daubers pose little threat to humans and are generally considered harmless.

Sand wasps are solitary, ground-nesting wasps that build their burrows in sandy or loose soil, often in sunny, open areas like beaches, playgrounds, or dry lawns. They have slender bodies with black and white or yellow markings and are quick, agile fliers. Sand wasps are not aggressive and rarely sting humans unless provoked. They play a beneficial role in the environment by hunting and paralyzing flies, caterpillars, or other insects to feed their larvae. Though their nesting sites may look like small holes in the ground, sand wasps are generally harmless and helpful garden allies.