Description:
Paper wasp: Long, thin body, and appear smooth and hairless. Considered beneficial because they consume many of our insect pests. Nests may be located on ceiling overhangs, window sills, etc. Though they look like they want to, Paper wasps rarely sting humans at any time.
Tarantula Hawk: Large, metallic blue-black with either blue-black or bright orange wings and black antennae. Robust body compared to other wasps. These wasps are nectivorous, feeding on flower nectar or the juice of damaged fruits. This wasp species received its common name by their behavior of attacking large spiders like tarantulas, they sting the spider which paralyzes it but does not kill it, then they bury it with a single wasp egg. When the egg hatches the immature wasp feed on the spider.
*As with the Paper wasps, the Tarantula Hawk will typically avoid humans but may be induced to sting if agitated.
Yellow Jacket: Yellow with black patterning on head, thorax and abdomen. They are scavengers of meat and are frequently found around garbage cans. They will also feed on insects and other small animals they capture. Nests are constructed in rodent burrows, logs, house walls and attics.
Wasp Management:
1. Be aware. Eating or drinking sweet drinks outside in summer and early fall may attract wasps at a time when they are most aggressive, especially yellow jackets. Be sure to check any food or soda cans/bottles before consuming when eating outside.
2. DO NOT PANIC!!!! Leave the area and if she is persistent, there may be a nest nearby that she is protecting.
More Wasp Information here:
Wasp Management
Bug Proof Your Home
Backyard Gardener: Paper Wasps and Yellowjackets
For more pest and landscape information:
www.CIPM.weebly.com
