Little-Known Facts About Wasps And Their Dangers
There are many types of wasps in Oklahoma City and distinguishing between them can be difficult. Hornets tend to be the largest, but are simply a subset of wasp species.
Three species common in the area include:
- Yellowjacket: Ranging in size from 3/8 inch to 5/8 inch long, it has a smooth black body with yellow on the front of its head and yellow bands surrounding its abdomen. Their waist narrows between the thorax and abdomen. They have six legs, antennae, two wings, and a spear-like stinger. Yellowjackets are incredibly territorial and will sting repeatedly. Allergic reactions can turn deadly.
- Cicada killer: Measuring between 1 1/8 inch to 1 5/8 inches, the cicada killer is one of the largest wasps in the United States. Their body is black and “beefy” with yellow to white stripes. Their head and torso are dark red, and their legs are a brownish color. Males are aggressive but do not sting; females will sting when handled roughly.
- European hornet: Queens can be as large as 1 1/2 inches long while workers measure 1 inch long. They are brown with wide yellow markings. Their head is a reddish-brown color that appears more yellow on the face. They have six legs, long bodies, antennae, and two pairs of wings. The European hornet will defend its nest aggressively and can repeatedly sting and cause allergic reactions.
No matter which type of wasp you find on your Oklahoma City property, it is important to address.
Everything You Need To Know About Wasp Life Cycles And Their Nests
Property owners need to be aware of lifecycles and nesting habits when identifying whether you have wasps. Times of nest construction and what they look like can help property owners identify which species inhabit your property.
Nests and life cycles of common Oklahoma City species are as follows:
- Yellowjacket: Colonies are established yearly, with nests dying out in the fall. Queens will winter in protected places until spring arrives. Nests are usually underground (although some species can build aerial nests) in tree cavities, rodent burrows, attics, and walls. Cells hide within an encased paper envelope.
- Cicada killer: Adults emerge in early July and live throughout the summer months. Females will dig nesting holes underground in thin vegetation, full sun, and well-drained soil. During the fall, silken cocoons protect the larvae through winter.
- European hornets: Queens hibernate over winter. During the spring, they use gathered wood to build nests. Workers and males will die at the beginning of winter. Nests are found in hollow areas like trees, attics, barns, and old beehives. Unprotected nests have a brown, papery envelope surrounding them, but if the nest is in a sheltered area, it may have little to no envelope covering the cells.
If you see evidence of wasp nests on your property it is important to take action as soon as possible.
Get Rid Of Wasp Nests On Your Oklahoma City Property Once And For All
Just because you don’t see activity around a wasp nest doesn’t make it safe. Never underestimate the dangers that come with wasp nest removal. Considering this pest can repeatedly sting you and is tenacious in its pursuit, giving them a wide berth is best. The safest way to remove these nests is to call the pest professionals at Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma.
The Best Solution To Your Oklahoma City Wasp Problem
Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma has over 45 years of combined pest-fighting experience. Allow our veteran and family-owned company to help you solve your pest problems. We have the tools and expertise to safely and effectively remove your pest infestations.
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