As a homeowner in Florida, you’ve probably encountered many buzzing insects in your backyard. While some of them are harmless, others might be causing trouble. Wasps are one of the most common insects that can cause distress to homeowners. In this article, we will help you identify the different wasp species you may encounter in your Florida backyard and give you tips on how to coexist with them safely.
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.
Paper wasps are commonly found throughout Florida. They are medium-sized wasps that build small, paper-like nests. Paper wasps are generally not aggressive and only sting when they feel threatened. If you have a paper wasp nest in your yard, it is best to leave it alone and avoid disturbing the wasps.
Yellow jackets are another common type of wasp found in Florida. They are often mistaken for bees because of their yellow and black stripes. Unlike paper wasps, yellow jackets are very aggressive and will sting multiple times if threatened. They build their nests underground or in cavities such as trees or walls. If you find a yellow jacket nest in your yard, it is best to hire a professional pest control company to remove it.
Mud daubers are a type of solitary wasp that build nests out of mud. They are not aggressive and rarely sting humans. Mud daubers are beneficial to have around your yard as they prey on spiders and other pests. If you see a mud dauber nest in your yard, it is best to leave it alone.
Cicada killers are large wasps that resemble yellow jackets. However, they are not aggressive towards humans and only sting if provoked. They build their nests in dry, sandy areas and feed on cicadas. If you find a cicada killer nest in your yard, it is best to leave it alone as they are beneficial to the environment.
While wasps may be a nuisance, they serve an important role in the ecosystem by controlling pest populations such as spiders and insects. To coexist with wasps safely, avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or strong fragrances outdoors. Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and remove any potential food sources from your yard. If you must remove a wasp nest, always wear protective clothing and seek professional assistance if necessary.
In conclusion, identifying the different wasp species in your Florida backyard can help you coexist with them safely. Remember to leave nests alone whenever possible, and take precautions to avoid attracting them to your yard. By following these tips, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about wasps.