Yellow Jackets

What do yellow jackets look like?

Yellow jackets are stinging insects that grow to about half an inch long. Their bodies have black and yellow bands that resemble uneven stripes. Yellow jackets have six long, thin legs, two antennae, and a pair of wings.

What do yellow jackets eat?

Yellow jackets enjoy both sweets and proteins. Adult yellow jackets feed on plant and flower nectar, honeydew, and fruit. They also consume insects and meat. Yellow jacket larvae eat only protein-rich foods. Because of their varied diets, yellow jackets often flock to outdoor events where food is available.

Are yellow jackets more aggressive than other wasps?

Yellow jackets have a reputation for being among the most aggressive wasps, but in reality, most wasps exhibit similar levels of aggression. If you leave yellow jackets alone, they typically won’t sting. However, they will defend themselves if you get too close to them or their nests. They become especially aggressive when they sense their nest is under threat.

Do yellow jackets sting more than once?

Yellow jackets can and will sting more than once if they feel threatened. Unlike bees with barbed stingers that get stuck and detach, yellow jackets have smooth stingers, which allow them to sting repeatedly.

Additionally, disturbing a yellow jacket nest triggers a mass defense response. Dozens of yellow jackets may swarm to protect the nest, increasing your chances of receiving multiple stings.

Where do yellow jackets build their nests?

Yellow jackets build paper carton nests in a variety of locations. They may construct their nests in the ground or in large sheltered areas such as attics or beneath eaves.

How can I tell if I have a yellow jacket nest nearby?

If you see a yellow jacket flying around your property, a nest likely exists nearby. These stinging insects typically stay within 1,000 feet of their nests.

What should I do if I see yellow jackets around my home?

If you notice yellow jackets near your house, carefully inspect your property to locate the nest. However, exercise caution—accidentally disturbing a nest can result in painful stings. Since yellow jackets sometimes build nests underground, it’s easy to step on one without realizing it.

Are yellow jacket stings dangerous?

Yellow jacket stings always cause pain. Most people experience pain, swelling, and redness at the sting site. However, if you're allergic to yellow jacket venom, the reaction can be much more severe and may lead to anaphylaxis.

Why are yellow jackets more active in late summer and fall?

Yellow jacket queens become active in the spring. They find a location to build a nest and begin laying eggs. Over time, the colony grows and reaches its peak, up to 4,000 worker yellow jackets, by late summer and fall.

During this time, queens usually stop laying eggs. As a result, worker yellow jackets spend more time foraging for their food instead of feeding the young.

Can yellow jackets nest inside walls or attics?

Yes, yellow jackets can nest inside walls and attics. They prefer somewhat enclosed areas with ample space, making wall voids and attics ideal for nesting.

When should I call a professional to handle yellow jackets?

If you notice heavy yellow jacket activity or discover a nest on your property, contact the professionals at The Pied Piper. Because yellow jackets aggressively defend their nests and can sting repeatedly, handling a nest on your own is unsafe. The Pied Piper team has the expertise to safely remove yellow jacket nests and protect you and your family from stings.

What’s the best way to prevent yellow jackets on my property?

To prevent yellow jackets, remove items around your property that attract them. Although early spring is ideal—before queens select nesting sites—you can practice pest prevention anytime.

Use these tips to avoid a yellow jacket infestation:

• Store outdoor garbage bins away from the house and ensure they have tight-fitting lids.
  
• Minimize flowering plants and fruit trees in high-traffic outdoor areas.
• Address moisture problems and improve drainage around your home.
  
• Keep food and drinks covered when eating outside and clean up thoroughly afterward.
  
• Seal openings, including small cracks and gaps, around your home's exterior to block yellow jackets from entering walls or other enclosed spaces.
  
• Avoid using scented perfumes or lotions and wearing brightly colored clothing while spending time outdoors.