Summertime in Albuquerque means outdoor activities galore: picnics, hikes, camping, barbecues, the list goes on and on! Unfortunately, the warmer weather brings about an increase in wasp activity! Although there are more than 4,000 wasp species in the United States, there are three summertime wasps in particular to be on the lookout for: yellow jackets, paper wasps, and mud daubers. Because wasps can be aggressive this time of year, it’s important to know how to identify them and when to get help from a professional pest control company. Keep reading to learn more about summertime wasps from the experts at Pest Defense Solutions.

Yellow Jackets

These wasps are notoriously aggressive and very common, especially in the late summer. Some things to know about yellow jackets include:

1. Yellow jackets congregate in colonies of up to or more than 1,000 workers.
2. Their nests look globe-shaped and are built above ground, often near garages, sheds, and more.
3. Yellow jackets will not bother you unless they feel threatened, in which case they may sting repeatedly.
4. Yellow jackets can be best identified by the yellow and black horizontal stripes that run across their bodies.

Mud Daubers

As their name implies, mud daubers are known for constructing their nests out of mud. Although they aren’t as aggressive as yellow jackets, it’s important to know how to identify them:

1. They are mostly black in appearance but may have light-colored markings. Mud daubers can be identified by their thin, thread-like waist.
2. Nests are usually located in covered areas such as porch ceilings, sheds, and attics.
3. These wasps are less social than other types, often preferring to be solitary.
4. Mud daubers aren’t as aggressive and will only sting when directly handled or threatened.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps aren’t as hostile as other wasps, but are common this time of year. Here’s what to know about this summertime wasp:

1. They are similar in body shape to yellow jackets, but are mostly brown in color with yellow markings.
2. These wasps are known for the papery nests they build, which look like upside-down umbrellas.
3. Paper wasp nests often hang from tree branches and twigs, as well as porch ceilings and door railings. They typically contain up to 30 wasps.
4. Paper wasps aren’t as aggressive as yellow jackets, but they may sting to defend their nests. Their sting is known to be especially potent.

Summertime Wasp Prevention & Removal

To avoid wasps this summer, it’s important to know how to prevent them. Keep food and drinks indoors, seal your trash cans, and know where to look for nests near your property. As soon as you see the signs of wasps or a wasp nest near your home, be cautious and contact the experts at Pest Defense Solutions. Our wasp removal services are quick, effective, and most importantly, safe!