What are stinging insects? Stinging insects include wasps, yellow jackets and hornets and they belong to an order of insects called hymenoptera. Depending on the specific species of stinging insects, nests can be built in trees or shrubs, attics, under porches, eaves or in sheds. The experienced professionals at A-Tex Pest Management understand the stinging insects found in Texas and the surrounding areas and have provided the following information to help you identify the difference between stinging insects including wasps, yellow jackets and hornets.
How Do You Know if it’s a Hornet, Yellow Jacket or Other Wasp Nest?
One of the easiest ways to figure out what type of stinging insect you have is by the shape and location of the nest. Wasps typically build round shaped nests that resemble honeycomb under the eaves of your home. Yellow jackets on the other hand build nests that are covered with a grayish black paper-like material and their preferred place for building nests is in attics and under porches. Hornets build nests that are large and resemble an upside down tear drop shaped ball which can be found attached to a tree, a bush or the side of a building. A mature nest can grow to the size of a basketball!
How Do You Identify a Wasp?
Wasps, yellow jackets and hornets look very similar and are made up of three sections, the head, thorax and the abdomen which contains the stinger. It is not uncommon for individuals to confuse yellow jackets and hornets, especially from a distance. The most identifiable difference between the hornet and the yellow jacket is the hornet’s larger head.
How Long Does a Wasp Sting Hurt For?
Stinging insects can be dangerous, while wasps will typically not sting unless provoked or unless someone gets too close to the nest, yellow jackets can be aggressive and have the capacity to sting repeatedly which can result in allergic reactions and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. Although larger in size than yellow jackets, hornets are generally more docile natured although they can become aggressive and will sting when their nest is disturbed or threatened. When stung by a wasp instant pain is felt at the site of the sting. It is sharp, burning, and usually lasts a few seconds. A swollen red mark will likely develop that is swollen and painful. It usually peaks at around 48 hours after the sting and lasts for up to a week.
Professional Stinging Insect Control is Effective
Wasps, yellow jackets and hornets are opportunistic and will build on or around your property by pure chance. Getting rid of stinging insects on and around your property can be dangerous and should be left to the knowledgeable experts at A-Tex Pest Management. Our highly trained pest control technicians have the tools and equipment to deal with stinging insects and rid them from your home and property.
Stinging Insect Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
A-Tex Pest Management is a leading innovator in the field of pest control and uses the most advanced pest control methods available on the market. Our pest control products and solutions are safe for use around humans, pets and plants. Contact the skilled and highly trained professionals at A-Tex Pest Management to schedule your appointment. Wasps, yellow jackets and hornets are opportunistic in nature and while it may not be possible to prevent a nest from being built on or around your property, you can rely on the experts at A-Tex Pest Management to remove nests quickly and safely to prevent addition pest problems.
