Pest Control for Yellowjackets
Need help controlling Yellowjackets?
Yellow jackets are social wasps that are commonly found in Ohio and throughout North America. They are known for their aggressive behavior, especially when their nest is disturbed.
Here are some basic biology facts about yellow jackets in Ohio:
Life cycle: Yellow jackets have an annual life cycle. In the spring, the overwintering queen emerges from hibernation and starts a new nest. She lays eggs that hatch into larvae, which are fed by the workers. The larvae pupate and emerge as adult workers that help expand the nest and care for the new brood. Towards the end of the summer, new queens and males are produced, mate, and the fertilized queens seek overwintering sites to start the cycle again.
Nesting: In Ohio Yellow jackets build their nests in a variety of locations, including underground burrows, in wall voids, in attics, and in trees. The nests are typically made of paper-like material that the wasps create by chewing wood and mixing it with saliva. Yellow jacket nests can contain thousands of individuals.
Diet: Yellow jackets are scavengers and predators. They feed on a variety of foods, including insects, carrion, and sugary substances. They are also known to scavenge human food, especially in late summer when their populations are at their peak in Ohio.
Behavior: Yellow jackets are known for their aggressive behavior when they feel threatened. They can sting multiple times and their stings can be painful and, for some individuals, even dangerous due to allergic reactions.
Yellow Jacket Control: If yellow jackets are causing a problem near your Ohio home, it is best to contact a professional pest control service to safely remove the nest. Attempting to remove a yellow jacket nest on your own can be dangerous due to their aggressive nature.
Ecological role: Despite their reputation as pests, yellow jackets do play a role in the ecosystem as predators of other insects. They help control insect populations and can be beneficial in that regard.
It's important to be cautious around yellow jackets and their nests to avoid getting stung in Ohio.