As the weather cools down, you may have noticed that yellow jackets seem to be getting more aggressive. It’s not just your imagination – these wasps are indeed more likely to sting in the fall. But what’s behind their irritable behavior?
New Neighbors: Southern Yellow Jackets
You might be dealing with an entirely different species than you’re used to. Southern Yellow Jackets have begun to make their way into New England. Warming climates have permitted them to move into territories they wouldn’t normally encroach upon, such as Massachusetts and Connecticut, and they are projected to continue North. Southern Yellow Jackets are notably more aggressive than their Northern cousins, but it is otherwise difficult for the untrained eye to distinguish between them.
Overpopulation: A Hive of Activity
By the time fall rolls around, yellow jacket nests have reached their peak capacity. Some nests can hold up to 4,000 individuals, making them a hub of activity. With so many mouths to feed, larger colonies send out more scouts to gather resources, increasing the likelihood of encounters with humans.
Hunger Pangs: A Desperate Search for Food
Unlike bees and other wasp species, yellow jackets don’t store food for the winter. Instead, they hunt and scavenge as needed. As food sources dwindle, yellow jackets become bolder in their search for a meal. This desperation can lead to more aggressive behavior, especially when they’re competing for limited resources.
A Sweet Tooth: Why Yellow Jackets Crave Sugar
During the spring and summer, yellow jackets feed on high-protein foods like decaying meat and insects. They chew these foods into a paste to feed their larvae, which in turn produce a sugary substance that nourishes the adults. By fall, most larvae have matured, leaving the adults without this sweet treat. As a result, yellow jackets develop a strong craving for sugary substances, making them more likely to target your soda or fallen apples.
Avoiding the Sting: Tips for Coexisting with Yellow Jackets
While it’s impossible to completely avoid yellow jackets, there are steps you can take to minimize encounters:
- Steer clear of nesting sites: Avoid areas with tree stumps, hollow logs, and trash cans, as these are common nesting sites.
- Dress for success: Wear neutral-colored clothing and avoid scented products, which can attract yellow jackets.
- Watch your step: Be mindful of where you’re walking, and wear shoes to avoid stepping on a nest.
- Remove attractants: Keep sugary drinks and fallen fruit off your property to reduce the likelihood of yellow jacket encounters.
- Stay calm: If approached by a yellow jacket, remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Swatting will only make them angrier.
Safe Nest Removal: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you need to remove a nest, follow these steps to minimize the risk of getting stung:
- Identify the nest: Mark the nest clearly, using red wire flags for ground nests.
- Choose the right time: Treat the nest at night when yellow jackets are less active, using a flashlight with a red filter to minimize disturbance.
- Use the right spray: Opt for a pressurized wasp and hornet spray that allows you to treat the nest from a safe distance. Spray directly into the entrance and move away quickly.
Still Need Help? Call a Professional
If you’re dealing with a yellow jacket infestation or need help removing a nest, don’t hesitate to call a professional pest control service. They have the training, equipment, and expertise to safely and effectively handle yellow jacket removals, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.