How long do wasps live?
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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Life expectancy of the queen can vary by species, but most live for several years. Workers on the other hand are hatched in the spring and live until the onset of freezing temperatures. The queen survives by leaving the colony to find shelter for the winter. The queen will reemerge the following spring to start laying eggs and begin the cycle over again.
Where do wasps live?
Wasp habitats can be different from one species to the next. Most wasps live in either aerial nests made from wood fiber and/or paper pulp or vacant ground burrows. Common nesting locations around the home include flower beds, small holes in the home’s exterior or under eaves and overhangs.
Why are wasps such a nuisance at picnics and outdoor events?
Wasps, particularly yellow jackets, enjoy sweets just as much as humans. Their sweet tooth often leads them to come in close contact with humans enjoying fruits, juices and other sweets during summer picnics or outdoor events.
Are wasps generally aggressive?
Wasps are aggressive and can be easily agitated, causing them to sometimes attack with little or no warning. Yellow jackets have a particularly bad reputation for attacking homeowners who are using lawn equipment. The loud, vibrating noises irritate them.
Why do wasps seem to attack in large numbers?
Wasps emit an alert pheromone when stinging. This signals other wasp to join the attack.
Can wasps sting more than once?
Wasps do not lose their stinger during an attack, allowing them to repeatedly sting their victims. Bees on the other hand can sting only once and die shortly afterwards.
Are wasps a health threat?
Stings are not generally life threatening, unless you are allergic to insect stings. If experiencing nausea, increased heart rate or difficulty breathing after an attack, seek immediate medical attention.
What should sting victims do if attacked by a wasp?
Victims who are attacked by wasps should flee the area as quickly as possible, seeking shelter in a home, garage, shed or car. Although instinct leads victims to swat at their attackers, victims should not do this. This only agitates the wasp(s) and can escalate the situation.
How can homeowners tell if wasps are nearby?
Before working outdoors, homeowners should visually inspect the area for wasp activity. Homeowners will notice that wasp populations will be more numerous near the nest. The inspection may also allow homeowners to pinpoint the location of the colony.
What can homeowners do to combat the presence of wasps?
Control of stinging insects is best left to a professional pest control company. Although there are numerous over-the-counter products for treating stinging insects, these require the homeowner to come in close proximity to the nest, often putting personal health at risk.
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