Stinging insects are common in New Jersey yards, but they can be deterred. If you’re worried about being stung, you should take steps to keep wasps away from your property. Follow these tips and learn the keys to wasp control.
The Wasps Of New Jersey
In New Jersey, there are several types of wasps. They are all similar in behavior but are different in appearance and some of their eating and colonizing habits. One of the most common wasps in the area is the yellow jacket. Typically, the wasps of this species are easily identified by their yellow and black stripes.
Paper wasps are also prevalent in New Jersey. They are easiest to identify by their paper-like nests. Usually, their bodies are more slender and their legs longer than yellow jackets. Meanwhile, cicada killers are larger than most other local species of wasps. They have yellow-tinted wings and burrow near gardens.
All of the local wasp species tend to become aggressive when they feel their nest is in danger. If you disturb or even approach a nest, you could be their next victim. Unlike some species of bees, wasps don’t lose their stingers after they sting you.
The Dangers Of Wasps
Wasps are dangerous because of their venom. When they sting you, they inject you with venom. That venom can cause swelling, irritation, and pain. If you have allergies to the venom, you could go into anaphylactic shock. Even if you don’t go into shock, you could experience nausea and dizziness.
Whether or not you have an allergy to the venom, you could be in danger from experiencing multiple stings at one time. After receiving multiple stings, you may need to seek immediate medical attention.
Wasps can also cause damage to your home. If they nest indoors, they might damage your ceiling or wallboard. They also may attract other pests who do even more damage to your property.
Although wasps are hazardous to have around, they are good for the environment. They are pollinators and some species kill other insects. Without wasps, the ecosystem would be in shambles. That said, you should do your part to keep wasps away from your property. Having them too close to your home puts you and your family at risk.
How To Keep The Pests Away
To avoid the problems that come with a wasp infestation, you need to make your property less appealing to them. There are several ways in which you can accomplish this.
Remove Water Sources
Like all living creatures, wasps require water to survive. You limit your chances of having wasps on your property by removing sources of moisture, like pet bowls and empty pots. If you have any leaking water features or faucets, you should repair them as soon as possible.
Remove Access To Nesting Spots
In an attempt to find a place to build a nest, a wasp might wander into your home. Keep them out by sealing up holes in your screens, gaps in your window, and closing other potential entry points.
Avoid Over-Planting
Too many flowering plants will attract wasps to your property. Although your garden might look beautiful, it makes your property appealing to wasps and other insects. Limit the number of flowering plants in your garden or keep it far away from your home.
Work With A Professional
There’s no way to guarantee that wasps will stay away from your property. By working with an experienced professional, you improve your chances of keeping wasps away. They know all the secrets to effective wasp control. The best way to prevent wasps in your yard is with assistance from the New Jersey pest professionals at Amco Pest Solutions.