Effective Strategies for Removing Paper Wasps Safely

Summertime, and the living is easy. Right?

Although the warm weather is wonderful for enjoying the great outdoors, it also signals the time of year that wasps are typically most active. From spring through early fall wasp activity usually reaches its peak. 

What should you do when you find a wasp nest on your property? Identifying the type of wasps that you’re dealing with is always a good starting point, particularly since some sting and some rarely do. Additionally, many wasps play important roles in the ecosystem and should only be removed when necessary. 

Explore how to get rid of paper wasps and the benefits of professional guidance in removing wasp nests for outdoor fun that keeps everyone safe.

Introduction to Paper Wasps 

Paper wasps are one of thousands of wasp species. They are a type of stinging wasp known as vespid wasps. They are social in nature and tend to live in small colonies. Paper wasps are also beneficial because they feed on plant nectar and help disperse pollen in the process. Additionally, they feed on some problematic pests, including caterpillars and corn earworms. 

Identifying Paper Wasps 

Paper wasps have six long legs, which you can see hanging as they fly. They typically are between 5/8 and 3/4-inch with bodies usually brown with yellow markings. Some paper wasps may have reddish or orange markings. They have a narrow waist and two antennae and create papery nests that aren’t fully enclosed and are shaped much like upside-down umbrellas. 

Understanding the Behavior and Habitat of Paper Wasps 

Paper wasps usually emerge in spring to build their nests and lay their eggs in open cells. Only one queen lays eggs at a time in each colony, with a new queen taking over once the previous one dies. These wasps typically choose sheltered areas for their nesting locations. You might find them hanging from the branches of trees, inside door frames, attic rafters, railings, soffits, and eaves. When the nest is near homes and other human structures, the chances of an encounter increase. Although these wasps are rarely aggressive, they will sting repeatedly to defend their nest. 

The Risks of Paper Wasp Stings 

Like other wasps, these wasps can sting more than once. Not only are they painful, but they can present some health risks, including the potential for allergic reactions.

Health Risks Associated with Stings 

A wasp sting often results in a raised welt with a mark where the paper wasp’s stinger entered your skin. Sharp pain, burning, redness, itching, and swelling are common, but typically subside within a few hours of the event. Some people may have larger reactions, including more extreme swelling that lasts several days or even some nausea or vomiting. It’s a good idea to consult with a doctor in these instances because it may indicate an allergic reaction. 

Allergic Reactions and Safety Precautions 

While some allergic reactions are relatively mild, a severe reaction can be life-threatening. Symptoms include severe swelling, hives, dizziness, wheezing and other breathing problems, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is the most severe reaction and can lead to death.

Mild allergic reactions may be handled by carefully washing the site of the sting and taking Benadryl or another over-the-counter antihistamine. Anyone with a history of severe allergic reactions should have a kit that contains a shot of epinephrine. This medication helps stabilize blood pressure and respiration and normalize your heart rate. 

Best Time for Wasp Nest Removal 

Safe wasp removal techniques take the time of day and time of year into account. Ideally, removing wasp nests occurs during times that wasps are the least active.

Seasonal Considerations 

If you can catch the nest early in its construction, dealing with paper wasps becomes exponentially easier. In winter and early spring, the nests are inactive and empty, or queens are just starting to build them. In cooler weather, when the temperature is no higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit, any wasps in the nest will be sleepy and lethargic.

Optimal Times of Day for Removal Activities 

When removing wasp nests, it’s best to wait until early morning or sunset when wasps are least active. This provides a cushion of time, allowing you to spray the nest without having wasps charging at you to defend it.

Safe Removal Techniques 

When approaching wasp removal as a DIY project, there’s simply no safety guarantee. However, you can take a few steps to lessen the potential hazards. For example, avoid using a flashlight to prevent attracting otherwise inactive wasps. Likewise, it’s essential to wear protective clothing, including long pants, a hat, long-sleeved shirt, socks, and shoes. Wearing gloves and protective eyewear can also enhance safety, particularly if you choose to use a wasp-specific pesticide.

After killing the wasps, wait a day or two and remove the nests. This will help prevent wasps that weren’t in the nest when you applied treatments from rebuilding it once they return.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infestations 

Whether removing wasp nests on your own or with professional assistance, prevention is the best next step forward. Preventive measures can include simple maintenance, natural deterrents, and making your home less attractive.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance 

The sooner you spot a wasp nest in the making, the easier it is to eliminate them. Additionally, some simple maintenance can help reduce the likelihood wasps make your home their own. Examples include: 

• Keeping flowering plants away from areas you typically spend time in 
• Placing sugar water in far corners of the property to create feeding habitats away from your home and other structures 
• Frequently emptying and cleaning garbage cans, keeping them covered and away from buildings 
• Composting indoors or using pest-proof compost bins 
• Storing pet dishes inside to reduce easy access to nourishment
• Promptly picking any fallen fruit from trees and other plans 
• Removing food instead of letting it sit out for any length of time 

Natural Repellents and Deterrents 

Certain natural substances and smells may help keep wasps from making their home too close to yours. For example, some people have anecdotally reported success using coffee grounds and cinnamon sprinkled in the garden and vulnerable areas. Another idea is mixing water, a few drops of dish soap, and essential oils like peppermint, clove, or geranium. You can use that spray to protect eaves, roofs, railings, and ledges – anywhere wasps like to build their nests. 

Sealing Entry Points and Reducing Attractants 

Preventing wasps from getting inside your home can make a tremendous difference. A few ways to eliminate entry points include: 

• Seal cracks and small openings with silicone caulk 
• Repair window and door screens, installing door sweeps, and keeping doors closed 
• Add wire mesh screening to chimneys, vents, and soffits 

When to Call Professional Pest Control 

If you find paper wasp nests around your home or property, the safest way to remove them is to call a professional. Because paper wasps are beneficial insects, a professional pest control technician can evaluate where the nest is located and the potential danger it poses. Then, they can work with you to determine if the nest needs to be removed at all and create a plan to do so safely and effectively.

Scenarios Requiring Professional Help 

Dealing with paper wasps isn’t a DIY project. These insects can pack a painful sting, and they will defend their nest when provoked. Additionally, you could unknowingly leave an unseen portion of the nest and colony intact, risking your safety in vain. 

Benefits of Professional Wasp Removal Services 

Dealing with paper wasps can be a real pain. Don’t get stung. Instead, rely on professionals, who have the equipment, education, and expertise necessary to safely and effectively remove stinging insects.

Additionally, a pro can inspect your property and assess it for potential hot spots. They will identify problem areas and work with you to create a prevention plan to keep you and your loved ones safe and pest free. Contact USX Pest to learn more about our residential pest solutions or to schedule a free inspection.