DIY Wasp Removal Tips
Lorne Hanewich
Stinging insects are among the most common issues homeowners face during the summer months, with the two most prevalent offenders being yellow jackets and wasps. The biggest mistake homeowners make when it comes to stinging insects is disturbing a nest without knowing the size of the colony inside. Wasps and yellow jackets will trigger a defensive response if they feel they are in danger, and mature yellow jacket nests can contain thousands of workers, all of which will fixate on you if they view you as a threat.
While some stinging insect issues can be handled safely by the homeowner, other situations can quickly become extremely dangerous, and it is important to know the difference.
Identify the Problem
Not all stinging insects behave the same. Wasps and yellow jackets are very different, especially in how they build their nests.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps prefer to make open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, railings, and porch ceilings. These colonies are smaller and less aggressive.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets prefer to build nests underground, inside walls, or in shrubs. These colonies are both defensive and aggressive, attacking when disturbed. Yellow jacket attacks account for many stinging insect incidents.
What Can I Do to Safely Remove Wasps?
While stinging insect control is often too dangerous to do alone, there are instances where homeowners can apply DIY wasp control strategies to fix their problem themselves.
Remove Small, Visible Nests Early
If you spot a very small paper wasp nest (golf ball-sized) on your property early in the season:
- Treat at night or in the early morning when activity is the lowest
- Use a long-range wasp aerosol spray
- Stand as far back as possible and spray thoroughly
- Leave the nest in place for 24 hours to ensure activity stops before fully removing it
It is important to note that you should not attempt this if the nest is large or if you cannot maintain a safe distance from it.
Reduce Attractants Around the House
Yellow jackets are scavengers, which means they are strongly attracted to food sources and will establish a colony if you provide them with favorable conditions.
- Keep trash cans tightly sealed
- Clean outdoor grills after use
- Pick up fallen fruit from trees
- Rinse recycling containers before storing them
Seal Entry Points
Many wasp nests start inside structures, so taking away their access is key to keeping them off your property, especially walls and attics. You should inspect and seal:
- Gaps in siding
- Open soffit vents
- Cracks around utility penetrations
- Unscreened attic vents
Do not attempt to seal entry points while a colony is still active.
When to Call A Pest Control Professional
There comes a time when a problem cannot be dealt with on your own. Wasp infestations are no joke; the situation can escalate quickly, as these stinging insects will do anything to defend their nests and can sting multiple times. You should call a professional when:
- The nest is inside a wall, attic, or soffit
- You see yellow jackets entering a hole in the ground
- The nest is larger than a baseball
- The nest is near doors, walkways, or high-traffic areas
- Anyone in the home has a sting allergy
- You are unsure of the size or location of the nest
Professionals have specialized equipment, protective gear, and products that enable them to eliminate nests safely, without risk to the homeowner.
Contact Anticimex Carolinas for Professional Wasp Control
Speaking of professionals, the Anticimex Carolinas family of brands is full of them! Whether you need comprehensive wasp treatment strategies for your property to remove a nest, or you are just looking for wasp prevention tips, our wasp exterminator teams are here to help. We know the unique struggles that Carolinas properties face and will create customized pest management solutions tailored to your property’s needs. Contact us today!
