Stinging insects of any kind are some of the scariest pests you’ll find around your Rock Island property, but the worst of them all are wasps. Wasps can be rather terrifying because of their ability to sting and inject their venom into victims, and some species can be aggressive. It’s also important to know that the wasp family includes hornets, too.
While there are many species of wasp in the area, they all have some common characteristics that can help you identify them. These characteristics set them apart from bees and other flying insects.
Here is how you can tell if you’re looking at a wasp:
They are usually brown or black with yellow, orange, or red markings.
They have long, thin legs.
They have a thin “waist” that connects their abdomen to their thorax.
They are usually narrow and long.
Unlike bees, they aren’t fuzzy and generally appear shiny.
Wasps might be scary, but they do have some benefits to the environment. They are pollinators just like bees which makes them important to the ecosystem. Plus, many wasps control the populations of smaller insects that they hunt as prey.
However, despite these benefits, having wasps near your home can be dangerous because of their venom. While not all wasp stings are harmful, some species can sting multiple times. Being stung is a particular risk for those with allergies to the venom. But, even those without allergies can require hospitalization in rare cases.
Landscaping Tips To Deter Wasps
Because wasps can harm humans, and because they are just unpleasant to have around, you’ll want to take steps to prevent them. Some of the best ways to prevent wasps involve taking steps to make your yard less appealing to them. By focusing on some landscaping tips, you can help keep wasps away.
Planting wormwood can repel wasps.
Other wasp-repelling plants include citronella and mint.
Avoid planting sweet fennel, Queen Anne’s lace, and other sweet-smelling plants.
Don’t overplant any flowering vegetation.
Regularly trim trees, bushes, and shrubs.
Make sure to treat water features like hot tubs with the proper chemicals.
Remove standing water from your property.
Other Helpful Wasp Prevention Tips
After working on your landscaping to deter wasps, you can follow some other simple steps to keep them away. These tips are easy to implement and good at reducing the likelihood you’ll have a wasp nest on your property.
You can take these measures to further prevent a wasp problem:
Keep outdoor trash cans fitted with lids.
Store pet food indoors whenever possible.
Fill holes in the ground as some wasp species use these to build nests.
Clean up clutter around your yard.
Don’t leave trash sitting around your property.
Clean up any outdoor food or drink spills.
Avoid eating outdoors in general.
Get The Best Wasp Prevention Assistance
Because of the risks associated with wasps, the best way to prevent and remove them is to seek help from the professionals at Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators. Our highly-trained technicians can prevent infestations from occurring, and we can also remove any current nests safely. Trying to get rid of a wasp nest on your own is dangerous, so don’t put yourself at risk. Call us today to get started and schedule your free inspection. Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control options.