A Helpful Guide To Effective Wasp Control For Houston Property Owners

It’s also worth noting that yellow jackets and hornets are both sub-species of wasps. So, the hornets and yellow jackets in the area are all wasps, but not all wasps are hornets or yellow jackets.

Many wasp species look similar, and can even be mistaken for bees; however, below are some differences between wasps in the Houston area that can help you tell them apart.

1. Mud daubers: These are large species that can be up to two inches long. They have extremely thin waists that attach their thorax to their abdomen. They build their nests out of dried mud. 
2. Bald-faced hornets: These hornets are mostly black but with white markings on their faces. They are less than an inch long.
3. Southern yellow jackets: These are the most aggressive species in the area and the most venomous. They are about half an inch long, and they have black and yellow bodies.

The Benefits And Dangers Of Wasps

It can be easy to assume that wasps are only a bad species, but there are many benefits to these stinging insects. Like bees, many species of wasps are necessary for the environment because they are pollinators, making them essential in food production.

Also, many wasp species can help control smaller insect populations because wasps prey on them.

However, just because wasps can help the ecosystem doesn’t make them safe. There are many risks associated with wasps because of their venom. While not all wasps species are likely to sting, they will if they feel threatened.

Many species, especially more aggressive ones like yellow jackets and paper wasps, can sting and inject venom multiple times, putting people who aren’t normally allergic to their venom at risk. In rare cases, these stings can be fatal.

How To Protect Your Property From Wasps

Since wasps are dangerous to humans, doing your best to prevent them from taking up residence on your property is essential. While it’s not always possible to keep wasps away entirely, you can do some things to deter them. The best way to go about wasp prevention is to make your yard a less appealing place for them to build a nest.

Here are some of the best ways to deter wasps:

1. Remove any standing water on your property.
2. Make sure to cover water features like hot tubs, pools, and water fountains when not in use, and treat them with the correct chemicals.
3. Make sure to store pet food in airtight containers.
4. Keep outdoor garbage cans fitted with lids.
5. Avoid eating outside.

How To Remove A Wasp Nest

When you notice a nest on your property, especially if it appears to be inactive, you might think it’s safe to get rid of yourself. However, even inactive nests might not be safe, and trying to handle them on your own is dangerous. Instead of putting your safety at risk, contact the experts at Cantu Pest & Termite. With over 30 years of experience and free quotes, we have the knowledge and experience to provide effective home pest control for your home or commercial pest control for your Houston business. All you have to do is give us a call!