When warm weather arrives, so do stinging insects, and one of the most common you'll see around Arkansas homes is the paper wasp.
Known for the gray, umbrella-shaped nests they build under eaves, deck railings, or porch ceilings, paper wasps can quickly become an unwelcome guest. There are several species of paper wasps, each with slightly different nesting habits and appearances.
Introduction to Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are a familiar sight around homes, especially during the warmer months. These wasps are known for building distinctive paper-like nests, often tucked away in protected spots such as eaves, attics, and wall voids.
While paper wasps can appear intimidating, they can be beneficial. Paper wasps help control populations of garden pests by feeding on caterpillars and other unwanted insects. However, their presence can quickly become a problem if they build nests close to areas where people gather.
Are Paper Wasps Aggressive?
Paper wasps are not naturally aggressive when they're left alone. Adult wasps spend much of their time foraging for food and building their nests.
Adult wasps collect insects, meat, and other food sources to feed their developing larvae. However, like most stinging insects, they become defensive if they feel threatened. Accidentally bumping into or disturbing a nest or coming too close during their foraging can provoke stings.
How to Identify Paper Wasp Nests
A paper wasp nest is gray or brown, shaped like an open umbrella, and often hangs from a single stalk. A hornet's nest, in contrast, is usually much larger and fully enclosed, making it more difficult and dangerous to remove. Bald-faced hornets, for example, build large, enclosed, paper-like nests that are often mistaken for paper wasp nests. Unlike yellow jackets, paper wasps don't enclose their nests in a protective shell, which makes them easier to spot early. Bumblebees also build nests, but theirs are typically found underground and are less aggressive. There are many species of wasps and bees, each with unique nesting habits, so correct identification is important.
What to Do About a Small Paper Wasp Nest
Paper wasps typically begin building nests in spring, with the queen building the initial structure after emerging from hibernation.
If you find a small wasp nest on your property, you may be tempted to knock it down. While the smaller the nest, the easier it is to deal with, it's still risky, especially during the day when wasps are active. After the first batch of female workers emerges, the nest can grow rapidly as they assist the queen in expanding it. Removing a small paper wasp nest is safest at night when the wasps are less active, but even then, you can still be stung. Early morning is also an optimal time for treating or removing nests, since wasps are less active and more likely to be inside.
Old Nests and Their Impact
Old wasp nests, even after being abandoned, can linger around your home for months or even years. While these nests may no longer house active wasps, they can still attract other wasps and insects looking for a ready-made shelter, potentially leading to new infestations.
Removing old nests is a smart way to prevent this cycle, but it's important to do so safely. Always wear protective clothing and use the right tools to minimize the risk of stings, as some nests may still harbor a few lingering wasps.
If you notice multiple old nests or signs of a larger infestation, it's wise to contact Alder Pest Control. We can safely remove old nests and help prevent future problems, ensuring your home stays wasp-free.
New Nests and Prevention
Preventing new wasp nests from forming is much easier than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Start by sealing any holes, cracks, or gaps in your home's exterior, especially around wall voids and eaves, to block entry points for wasps. Regular inspections of these areas can help you spot the first signs of wasp activity, allowing you to take action before a nest is established.
Getting Rid of Paper Wasp Nests: DIY vs. Professional
While DIY methods may work for a short time, they don't always solve the problem. If you want to try DIY, remember to:
Wear protective clothing.
Attempt removal only at night.
Stand as far back as possible.
Even with these precautions, removing a paper wasp nest is dangerous. Wasps are fast flyers and won't hesitate to defend their colony.
When to Call the Professionals
The safest and most effective way to get rid of a paper wasp nest is to call a licensed pest control service like Alder Pest Control. Our professionals use protective gear, the right products, and proven methods to remove the nest without putting you, your family, or your pets at risk.
So, are paper wasps aggressive? Not unless you disturb their home. Whether it's a small wasp nest or a large colony, professional wasp removal ensures safety and peace of mind. If you spot a paper wasp nest on your property, don't wait for it to grow. Contact Alder Pest Control today for safe, reliable paper wasp nest removal.
