Yellow Jackets

What are Yellow Jackets?

A yellow jacket is a wasp that is often confused with hornets. They are typically about 0.47″ long and have yellow and black bands on their abdomens. They have been reported to reach sizes of about 2 inches which is very typical of the queen yellow jacket wasp. Yellow jackets are sometimes called bees since they are similar in size and general color as the honey bee, however, a yellow jacket is actually a wasp. Yellow jackets have a rapid, side to side flight pattern prior to landing. These insects are predatory and aggressive but only if they feel threatened.

Yellow jackets’ closest relatives are hornets which they closely resemble due to their larger heads. Their large eyes expand to the back of their heads. This species first appeared in Ohio in 1975. Interestingly enough, the yellow jacket wasp shares traits with both bees and ants because their heads resembles those of ants.

In New Jersey and the surrounding North Eastern states, the most common wasps are yellow jackets, hornets and paper wasps. Yellow jackets are the most recognizable since their color resembles that of bees. Paper wasps are brownish-black and get their name from what they use to build their nests with. They are 22 species in North America.

Are Yellow Jackets dangerous?

Yellow jacket wasps are a danger to humans, since they are extremely territorial and will chase you. Never swat at them since this will trigger them to follow you until they sting you or your family members. Their stings are extremely painful. Yellow jackets are a danger to humans and pets since they will typically build their nests near or around homes which resemble honeycombs and protect them if you or your family get too close to them.

Yellow jackets release toxins that can be harmful to humans, small mammals such as cats and dogs or other small pets. They also sting repeatedly and with each sting, they release another dose of their toxin which can be fatal to those who are allergic to their venom. Never swat a wasp because when they detect a threat, they release pheromones to signal to other wasps which cause more to come and help in the fight.

What effects do Yellow Jackets have on my home or business?

Yellow jacket wasps become an seasonal threat to homeowners or businesses because they like to sting anyone whom they perceive to be a threat to their nest. Some people may be allergic to their venom which could be fatal. Yellow jackets and Paper wasps are the most likely to sting. However, if you notice an infestation, it would be a good idea to call Service 24 Pest Control so these stinging insects dont cause harm to you, your family or your customers. How can you know if you are a perceived threat to these insects or not? It not worth taking that chance.

Without any proper yellow jacket wasp treatment, your New Jersey residential or commercial property may become the source of stress and anxiety created by these potentially deadly pests hanging around.

Having stinging insects such as yellow jacket wasps in or around your business will definitely run your customers away since they will be fearful of potentially being stung by these aggressive insects. Their mere presence can have a negative effect on your business.

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How do I prevent Yellow Jackets?

There are a few things you can do to keep yellow jackets away from your home or business. Seal up entry points like torn screens near windows, and window cracks. You will notice that yellow jackets and other wasps will be more active during the spring and summer months and will stay around until autumn before dying off. If you are unable to keep them away from your home or business during these times, then its time to call in the professionals. Controlling a yellow jacket wasp infestation is best handled by professionals. These pests will return seasonally and your residential or commercial property will require ongoing yellow jacket maintenance.

Protect your home or business from Yellow Jackets with Service24 Pest Control.

Service24 Pest Control offers expert and professional treatment designed to effectively control and prevent pests from invading and taking over your New Jersey residential or commercial properties. Call Service24 Pest Control today for your free estimate at 215-431-1853 or request an estimate today!

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