As a homeowner, it’s important to know what kinds of wasps you might see buzzing around your backyard. Some species can be beneficial by controlling garden pests, while others can be aggressive and pose a threat to you and your family. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common Texas wasp species and how to identify them.
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 a type of social wasp that build their nests out of paper-like material. They are typically brown or reddish-brown with yellow or red markings. If you see a wasp that fits this description, it is likely a paper wasp. These wasps are not usually aggressive unless they feel threatened.
Yellow jackets are one of the most aggressive types of wasps and can pack a painful sting. They are black with yellow markings and are often found near trash cans or picnic areas. If you see a yellow jacket in your backyard, it’s best to stay away from it and call a professional if you have a nest on your property.
Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build their nests out of mud. They are typically black or metallic blue with long, thin bodies. These wasps are not usually aggressive and can be beneficial as they prey on spiders.
Cicada killers are large wasps that hunt cicadas for food. They are typically black or brown with yellow markings and can grow up to 2 inches long. While these wasps are intimidating in size, they are not usually aggressive towards humans.
Bald-faced hornets are a type of social wasp that build large, grayish-white nests. They are aggressive and will defend their nests if they feel threatened. These wasps are black with white markings and can grow up to 3/4 inch long. If you see a bald-faced hornet nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional to remove it.
By learning about the different types of wasps in Texas, you can better understand which ones may be beneficial to have in your backyard and which ones may pose a threat to you and your family. Remember to always approach wasps with caution and call a professional if you suspect you have a nest on your property.