Yellow Jackets

What do yellow jackets look like?

Yellow jackets are black and yellow wasps with two black antennae, six mostly yellow legs, two sets of wings, and a pinched waist. They appear hairless, though you may see fine hairs up close (but we don’t recommend getting that close). Worker yellow jackets are about ½ inches long, while queens are around ¾ inches long.

How can I tell the difference between a yellow jacket and a honeybee?

Many people mistakenly call yellow jackets "bees," sometimes even referring to them as honeybees because of their similar yellow and black coloration. However, the key difference is in their appearance. Honeybees have a furry, fuzzy look, while yellow jackets are smooth and hairless despite the similar coloring.
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Are yellow jackets aggressive?

Yellow jackets are highly aggressive, especially when defending their nests and food sources.
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Do yellow jackets sting multiple times?

Unlike bees, yellow jackets do not have barbed stingers, so they can sting multiple times. They will repeatedly stab with their stinger, often clinging to their target and stinging several times. 

Pain and swelling often accompany yellow jacket stings; for some people, allergic reactions and even anaphylaxis can occur.
 

Where do yellow jackets nest?

Yellow jackets often nest in hidden voids, using a paper-like material to build nests in places like:

• Tree cavities
• Logs
• Abandoned animal holes
• Stump voids
• Wall voids
• Stored furniture in attics or sheds

These nests are typically difficult to detect because they’re hidden from view.
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Can yellow jackets damage my home?

Generally, yellow jackets don’t cause significant damage. However, they may chew through drywall or insulation as their nest expands. If a nest is near plumbing or damp areas, its activity can exacerbate water damage.
 

When are yellow jackets most active?

Yellow jackets begin with small populations in the spring and grow throughout the warm months, peaking in late summer or early fall. New female reproductives are ready to overwinter in the fall, mating with males before hibernation (diapause).
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What attracts yellow jackets to my yard?

Several things can draw yellow jackets to your yard, including:

• Flowering plants or weeds
• Fallen fruit under fruit trees
• Open soda cans or food near the grill
• Uncovered trash bins
• Puddles or other water sources

They’re also attracted to properties with nest-building materials, such as decaying wood, logs, dead branches, and firewood. They use pulp from these materials to create their paper-like nests.
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What should I do if I find a yellow jacket nest?

If you spot a yellow jacket nest, stay away! These wasps are very aggressive when defending their nests and will swarm at the slightest provocation. Avoid fast movements, don’t wave your arms, and be cautious not to stomp the ground as vibrations can trigger them.
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What’s the best way to eliminate yellow jackets?

We recommend professional yellow jacket nest removal. Attempting to deal with them on your own can lead to dangerous, stinging encounters. Big Time Pest Control’s experienced pest control specialists use the proper gear and are well-versed in removing yellow jacket nests. Contact us immediately for assistance.
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How can I prevent yellow jackets from nesting on my property?

Preventing yellow jacket nests involves addressing their natural behavior patterns. Here’s how:

• Regularly tackle lawn weeds
• Pick up fallen fruit from trees
• Avoid leaving food or drinks outdoors
• Keep trash receptacles tightly covered
• Use scented bags to mask garbage odors
• Prevent standing water on your property
• Remove logs, dead branches, and other wood sources

Additionally, you can seal entry points to your home using expanding foam and other pest-proofing materials to prevent them from nesting in walls.