If you’re a homeowner in Connecticut, chances are you’ve seen a few wasps buzzing around your backyard. While they can be intimidating, it’s important to know that not all wasps are aggressive and some are even beneficial for controlling other pests.
For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common species of wasps found in Connecticut and offer tips on how to identify them and deal with them safely.
Paper wasps are perhaps the most recognizable type of wasp, known for their slender bodies and long legs. They typically build their nests in sheltered areas like eaves or tree branches, and their nests have an open, umbrella-like shape.
Fortunately, paper wasps are generally non-aggressive and only sting when threatened. If you find a paper wasp nest on your property, it’s best to avoid disturbing it and simply keep your distance.
Yellow jackets are another common type of wasp in Connecticut, known for their yellow and black striped bodies. Unlike paper wasps, yellow jackets are much more aggressive and will defend their nests aggressively if they feel threatened.
Yellow jacket nests are typically found in the ground, although they may also build nests in shrubs or trees. If you spot a yellow jacket nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional exterminator to remove it safely.
Mud daubers are a type of solitary wasp that build their nests out of mud. They are generally non-aggressive and don’t pose a significant threat to humans, as they mainly feed on spiders.
If you see mud dauber nests on your property, you can simply leave them alone, as they are unlikely to cause any harm. However, if you do need to remove them, it’s best to do so at night when the wasps are less active.
Hornets are a type of large, aggressive wasp known for their painful stings. They build their nests in trees or bushes and can be easily identified by their large size and brown or black coloring.
If you spot a hornet nest on your property, it’s best to stay away and contact a professional exterminator to remove it safely. Attempting to remove a hornet nest on your own can be dangerous and should only be done by experienced professionals.
While wasps can be intimidating, it’s important to remember that not all of them are aggressive and some can even be beneficial for controlling other pests. By learning how to identify the different types of wasps you may encounter in Connecticut, you can take steps to deal with them safely and effectively.