Are you seeing wasps buzzing around your backyard in Greensboro, North Carolina? Not all wasps are created equal, and it’s important to know which ones are harmless and which ones pose a threat. In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll help you identify the most common types of wasps in Greensboro.
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 named after their nests, which are made of paper-like materials. They are slender with long legs and can be identified by their brownish color and yellow markings. While they may look scary, paper wasps are generally not aggressive unless their nest is disturbed. If you see a paper wasp nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional to remove it.
Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that are often mistaken for bees due to their black and yellow striped bodies. They are more aggressive than paper wasps and will sting if they feel threatened. Yellow jacket nests are often found underground, so be cautious when mowing your lawn or gardening. If you spot a yellow jacket nest, it’s best to call a professional to remove it.
Bald-faced hornets are actually a type of yellow jacket, but they have distinct black and white coloring that sets them apart. They build large, football-shaped nests that hang from trees or buildings. Bald-faced hornets are aggressive and will attack if they feel their nest is threatened. If you spot a bald-faced hornet nest on your property, call a professional to remove it immediately.
Cicada killers are a type of solitary wasp that are often mistaken for bumblebees due to their large size and fuzzy bodies. However, cicada killers are not aggressive and rarely sting humans. They are named for their habit of hunting cicadas, which they paralyze and then use as food for their young. If you see cicada killers in your yard, consider yourself lucky - they are beneficial insects that help control cicada populations.
Now that you know more about the different types of wasps in Greensboro, you can better identify which ones are harmless and which ones pose a threat. Remember, if you come across a wasp nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional to remove it safely. By coexisting peacefully with wasps and other backyard insects, you can create a healthy and balanced ecosystem in your own backyard.