What types of wasps are there? Which are threats for stinging people? Who should you call for wasp and bee removal, or should you try to handle wasp nest removal on your own? We can answer these questions for you in simple ways that can help you understand what you may face.
What wasps are threats?
Wasp control is important for all wasps, but some types of wasps aren’t direct threats to people like others are. For instance, the cicada killer is a wasp that’s very vicious, but because they tend to be solitary and nest away from humans, they’re not typically a danger.
Beware yellow jackets, paper wasps, bald-faced hornets, and European hornets. Of the different types of wasps, yellow jackets are the most dangerous. They are prone to sting repeatedly, and their nests often house thousands of wasps that can respond quickly to a perceived threat. You may be more likely to come into contact with paper wasp nests in areas like patios, decks, or under eaves.
What about bees?
There are bees that are threats as well, particularly Africanized honey bees, otherwise known as killer bees. They can swarm in the thousands and chase someone for several hundred feet.
We mentioned hornets, right?
This can be confusing. Bald-faced hornets are technically wasps. European hornets, which Florida does have, are technically hornets. Yet we call both hornets because of the way they behave. Hornets can be very relentless. Though they try to nest in more secluded areas, hornets can quickly swarm and give chase. They can be a threat to hikers, or in more wooded residential areas.
Who is at risk from stings?
Those with allergies are most clearly at risk, but they’re not alone. A big enough or aggressive enough swarm can endanger the life of a healthy adult. The elderly, children, and pets are at especially high risk if you disturb a nest nearby.
Can I try wasp nest removal on my own?
This is typically a bad idea unless you have previous experience. Wasp and bee removal can be dangerous. So can misidentifying the type of wasp or bee you’re dealing with. Improper wasp nest removal can result in dozens or even hundreds of stings to you and others. Professional wasp nest removal is very safe.
Entrust wasp control to a professional pest control service like Slug-A-Bug. It’s far safer for you and your family this way. Even if you think you can run away fast enough, you may be underestimating wasps’ aggressiveness, and others may not be able to get away like you can.