If you’re a homeowner in New Orleans, Louisiana, chances are you’ve encountered your fair share of wasps in your backyard. While these insects may seem intimidating, understanding more about them can help you coexist with them safely. Here’s what you need to know:
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.
There are several types of wasps that are commonly found in New Orleans, including:
Paper wasps are brown in color and have long, thin bodies with yellow markings. They build their nests from paper-like material that they create by chewing on wood pulp. You’ll often find paper wasp nests attached to eaves or other outdoor structures.
Yellowjackets are black and yellow in color and are known for their painful stings. They often build their nests underground, but can also be found in wall voids or attics.
Hornets are larger than most other wasps and are typically black with white or yellow markings. Their nests are usually large, gray, and shaped like a football. Hornets are known for their aggressive behavior and painful stings.
It’s important to be able to identify wasp nests so that you can avoid them or have them removed if necessary. Look for nests in areas such as under eaves, in attics, or in trees and shrubs.
Paper wasp nests are often umbrella-shaped and can be found attached to structures. Yellowjacket nests are usually underground, but can also be found in walls or attics. Hornet nests are typically large and gray, and are often found in trees or under eaves.
If you encounter a wasp nest on your property, it’s best to have it removed by a professional pest control company. Attempting to remove a nest yourself can be dangerous, especially if you are allergic to wasp stings.
If you do get stung by a wasp, there are a few steps you can take to treat the sting:
Remember to always wear protective clothing when working outdoors, especially if you will be near wasp nests.
While wasps may seem intimidating, understanding more about them can help you stay safe while enjoying your outdoor spaces. If you do encounter a wasp nest on your property, don’t hesitate to contact a professional pest control company to handle the situation safely.