If you’re a homeowner in South Dakota, you’ve probably seen your fair share of wasps buzzing around your backyard. While they can be helpful for pollinating plants and controlling pest populations, they can also be a nuisance and even dangerous if provoked.
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 article, we’ll go over some of the most common types of wasps found in South Dakota and provide tips on how to identify and deal with them.
Paper wasps are slender, black or brown wasps with long legs and narrow waists. They are often found building their nests under the eaves of houses or in other sheltered areas. The nests are made of a papery material that the wasps create by chewing up wood fibers.
If you come across a paper wasp nest, it’s important to be cautious. These wasps can become aggressive if they feel threatened and will sting if provoked. If the nest is located in a high-traffic area, such as near a doorway or window, it may be best to call a pest control professional to remove it.
Yellow jackets are another common type of wasp found in South Dakota. They are black and yellow with a distinctive pattern on their abdomens. Yellow jackets are known for their aggressive behavior and can sting multiple times.
Yellow jacket nests are usually located underground or in other hidden areas, such as inside walls or hollow trees. If you see a lot of yellow jackets flying in and out of a hole in the ground or a crack in a wall, it’s likely that there is a nest nearby.
To prevent yellow jacket stings, it’s important to keep food and drinks covered when outdoors, as these pests are attracted to sweet smells. If you do encounter a yellow jacket nest, it’s best to call a professional to remove it.
Hornets are larger than most other types of wasps and have distinct black and white markings on their bodies. They build their nests out of a paper-like material, similar to paper wasps.
Hornet nests are often found in trees or bushes, but can also be found in attics, sheds, or other sheltered areas. Like yellow jackets, hornets can be very aggressive and will defend their nests vigorously if disturbed.
If you find a hornet nest on your property, it’s best to stay away from it and call a pest control professional to remove it safely.
As a homeowner in South Dakota, it’s important to be aware of the different types of wasps that you may encounter and how to deal with them safely. If you do come across a wasp nest on your property, it’s always best to call a professional for help rather than trying to remove it yourself.
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about unwanted wasp encounters.