The Secret To Effective Yellow Jacket Control In Memphis

7/15/2022

There are many pests that look dangerous, but most cannot back their intimidating appearance up with any form of actual danger. The yellow jacket, however, can. This scary yard pest has potent venom and a quick stinger. One wrong step and you could find yourself with a half dozen stings or more. To help you avoid and control yellow jackets here in Memphis, here are some things to consider today and one elimination strategy that is sure to help you get these pests out of your yard.

Is This A Yellow Jacket?

What is a yellow jacket? A yellow jacket is a local, ⅜ to ⅝” long, yellow and black wasp that poses a direct threat to people with its harmful stinger. Although considered to be the most aggressive species of wasp in Memphis, this insect, like its close relatives, will not sting unless directly threatened. The thing that makes yellow jackets more likely to sting is their territorial nature and over-protective behaviors. You are most likely to be stung by a yellow jacket during the fall months as nests prepare their queens for potential hibernation. To avoid getting stung, avoid nests as much as possible. You are most likely to find a yellow jacket nest under the eaves of buildings, in trees, or inside holes in the ground. If you have recently had trouble with groud pests like gophers or voles, be careful where you step outdoors as you might put your foot through an active yellow jacket nest in the ground of your Memphis property. 

The Best Way To Get Rid Of Yellow Jackets

Because yellow jackets are more aggressive than other area wasps, a cautious approach is required to remove these pests from properties. If you are looking to take care of yellow jackets on your own, we recommend staying vigilant. Once a week thoroughly inspect your property for nests. If you find one that is newly developed and smaller than a golf ball, use a long broom to knock it down. Do this at sunrise or sunset when wasps are least active. If the nest has closed or is underground, do not try to handle it on your own. A yellow jacket wasp stings multiple times and will not stop attacking until you are a good distance away from their home. If you are worried about being stung, let the experts at Dart Pest, Lawn & Wildlife lend a helping hand. Our team is trained in pest control tactics and has the safety equipment and tools needed to safely and effectively handle yellow jackets on your property. 

What Kind Of Things Attract Yellow Jackets?

Yellow jackets are drawn to properties that provide them options for food and shelter. What do yellow jackets eat? These pests live on a diet of insects, nectar, honeydew, and certain human foods. The more flowers and budding plants you have on your property, the more likely these wasps will be to settle down nearby. The same is true if you regularly host outdoor gatherings and leave food and beverages out and uncovered. You can reduce your chances of yellow jacket problems by addressing these things or by investing in Memphis pest control services.

How To Keep Yellow Jackets Away From Your Home For Good

At Dart Pest, Lawn & Wildlife, we partner with local property owners to ensure their yards are an extension of their living spaces and not threatening to their health. If you want year-round protection against wasps and other harmful yard pests like ticks and mosquitoes, we have everything you need.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule your Memphis home for a detailed service visit.

Tags: stinging insects | memphis pest control | wasp control