Natural Paper Wasp Control in Virginia
Paper wasps build open nests under eaves and porch handrails, and in bushes, and other protected areas. Their presence might go unnoticed until the nest begins to grow in size. The bigger the nest, the more aggressive they can become as they have more expendable workers to defend their colony.
Paper wasp nests typically have a visible open comb, without a papery outer layer for protection. Paper wasps build their nests using local plant material combined with their saliva to create a papery substance that is normally a brownish or grayish color.
Mature nests can contain 100 - 200 workers or more, some having multiple queens. Most of the colony will die during the winter, except for the queen or queens who will overwinter under bark or mulch, in a wall void, or somewhere else protected from the extreme cold.
Dangers of Paper Wasp Stings
Rashes
Hives
Dizziness
Headache
Body aches
Muscle cramps
Nausea
Vomiting
Swelling away from the sting
Shortness of breath
Drop in blood pressure
Difficulty swallowing
State of shock
Unconsciousness
Death
Tips to Reduce Paper Wasps & Paper Wasp Stings
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Keep lawn areas maintained and foliage thinned out to allow for more sunlight and increased airflow, while reducing nesting materials.
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Reduce or eliminate items that hold standing water outdoors such as containers, old tires, tarps and furniture covers, and any other item that holds water.
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Avoid wearing strong or sweet scented lotions, perfumes, hairsprays etc. when spending time outdoors.
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Be observant and take note of the presence of paper wasps. Early detection allows you to avoid the area if possible, or have the nest treated and/or removed before it becomes established.
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Wear long sleeve shirts and pants if weather permits.
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Wear khaki, tan, or dark colored clothing if in an area with paper wasps.
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Try to avoid quick movements if you find yourself near a nest.
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Hire Essential Pest for natural paper wasp control.
Did You Know?
Wasps are some of the most incredible flying insects. They can remember faces, which not only helps them recognize others from their nest, but also helps them to stay locked on to a perceived threat. Little claws on their feet give them a firm grip when they land on their target, allowing them to sting repeatedly.
Paper wasps can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, so you're not likely to outrun them. Your best option during an attack is to move away from the area calmly and quickly in a straight line, since most wasps will stop their pursuit once you're 100-150 feet from their nest. It's no wonder they instill fear in anyone who stumbles across a nest!