If you are a Michigan homeowner, chances are, you have seen your fair share of wasps buzzing around your backyard. While these stinging insects can be a nuisance or even a danger, it’s important to understand their behavior and how to deal 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.
Yellowjackets are one of the most common types of wasps in Michigan. These aggressive insects are known for their distinct black and yellow coloring and can be identified by their slender waist and narrow wings. Yellowjackets typically nest in the ground or in crevices and cavities, and can become very territorial and aggressive when threatened.
Paper wasps are another common type of Michigan wasp that can be found building their nests on eaves, under porches, and in trees. They are usually brown or red in color and have long, slender bodies with distinctive markings. While paper wasps can sting if provoked, they are generally less aggressive than yellowjackets.
Bald-faced hornets are actually a type of yellowjacket wasp, but are larger and more aggressive. They build large, grayish-white nests in trees, bushes, and on buildings. Bald-faced hornets will attack aggressively if their nest is disturbed, so it’s important to keep a safe distance from their nests.
While it may be tempting to try and remove a wasp nest yourself, it’s important to remember that wasps can be dangerous and removal should be left to professionals. If you do encounter a wasp nest on your property, stay away from it and call a pest control expert to safely remove it.
If you are dealing with individual wasps, there are a few things you can do to avoid getting stung:
By understanding the behavior of the different types of wasps in Michigan and knowing how to deal with them safely, you can enjoy your backyard without the worry of getting stung.