Facts & Information
What are Yellow Jackets?
Yellow jackets are social insects that live in large colonies containing 3,000 to 4,000 members. Commonly mistaken for the paper wasp, yellow jackets have shorter, thicker bodies with black antennae. They are primarily black and yellow and ⅜ to ⅝ of an inch in length. They chew up plant materials and soil to make their paper, gray nests. Nests can grow larger than a basketball in size and are commonly found in trees, sheds, under eaves, and other structures. Even though yellow jackets are beneficial by preying on other pests, they are extremely aggressive and will attack anyone that comes too close to their nest.
Why Do I Have Them?
Yellow jackets are commonly found in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. They will nest on your property because it provides them with a safe place to live and feed. Nests are usually found in trees and bushes. However, they also tend to build nests on sheds, under eaves, and porches. Meats and sweets often attract yellow jackets. Open garage cans, pet food left outside, outdoor barbecues, and picnics will attract hungry yellow jackets.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Yellow jackets are one of the most aggressive stinging insects. They are very protective of their nests and will attack and sting people that invade their space. Yellow jackets have smooth stingers, which allows them to sting multiple times. Stings are very painful and may result in severe reactions to people who have stinging insect allergies. Accidentally stumbling across a yellow jacket nest can quickly turn into a dangerous situation.
Treatment & Control
How Do I Get Rid of Yellow Jackets?
Getting rid of yellow jackets can be difficult because of their nesting habits and aggressiveness. Contact our pest specialists if you notice a nest on your property. At Advanced Wildlife and Pest Control, our experienced technicians remove hundreds of yellow jacket nests each year. We will safely remove the nests from your property and eliminate your stinging pest problem.