As homeowners, we all want to enjoy our backyards without any unwanted visitors. Unfortunately, wasps are a common sight during the warmer months, and it can be tough to tell which ones are dangerous.
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.
Here in Nevada, there are several types of wasps you might come across. In this article, we’ll go over the most common ones and give you tips on how to identify them.
Paper wasps are perhaps the most recognizable type of wasp in Nevada. They have slender bodies and long, thin legs, and their nests look like upside-down umbrellas. These nests are often found hanging from eaves, tree branches, or other covered areas.
While paper wasps can deliver a painful sting, they are generally not aggressive unless their nest is disturbed. If you see a paper wasp nest in your yard, it’s best to leave it alone and call a professional pest control service if you’re concerned about it.
Yellowjackets are another common type of wasp that you might come across in Nevada. They are smaller than paper wasps and have more rounded bodies, with distinctive black and yellow stripes.
Yellowjackets are known for their aggressive behavior and can sting multiple times if they feel threatened. They often build their nests underground, so be careful when mowing your lawn or digging in your garden.
Mud daubers are a solitary type of wasp that usually won’t bother humans. They have a long, slender body and are usually black or metallic blue. Unlike paper wasps and yellowjackets, mud daubers don’t form colonies and instead construct individual mud nests.
If you see a mud dauber nest in your yard, you probably don’t need to worry about it. These wasps are beneficial because they prey on spiders and other insects.
Hornets are a type of wasp that are less common in Nevada but still worth mentioning. They are larger than other wasp species and have a brownish-red color, with distinct yellow markings. Their nests are usually found in trees or bushes and can be quite large.
Like yellowjackets, hornets can be very aggressive if they feel threatened, so it’s best to stay away from their nests. If you have a hornet problem in your yard, it’s best to call a professional pest control service.
Now that you know how to identify the most common types of wasps in Nevada, you can take steps to keep yourself and your family safe. Remember, if you encounter a wasp nest in your yard, it’s best to leave it alone and call a professional if you’re concerned.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about pesky wasps.