Vespula germanica
Color: Yellow and black, or sometimes brown and white
Size: 1/2 to 1 inch in length
Shape: Slender body with a narrow waist
Wasps are flying insects that can sting and are known for their aggressive behavior when defending their nests. They are often found in gardens and near outdoor activities. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times.
Wasps build nests in a variety of locations, including in trees, under eaves, and inside wall voids. They often construct paper-like nests from chewed wood and saliva. Some wasps build their nests underground or in sheltered areas.
Wasps feed on nectar and sugary substances. They are also known to hunt other insects, which they feed to their larvae. Wasps are attracted to sweet foods and drinks, making them common at outdoor events.
Wasps are more aggressive than bees and can sting multiple times. They become defensive when their nests are threatened and will chase intruders away from their nests. Wasps are often seen buzzing around food sources and nests.
In late summer, queen wasps lay eggs that hatch into workers. The workers build and maintain the nest. In the fall, new queens are produced. These queens leave the nest to hibernate and start new colonies the next spring.
To control wasps, identify and remove nests early in the season. Use wasp traps and keep outdoor areas clean to avoid attracting them. If a nest is found, consider professional pest control services to safely remove it.
Wasp stings can be painful and cause allergic reactions in some people. Multiple stings or a single sting can lead to serious health issues, especially for those allergic to insect venom. Avoiding wasps and removing nests can reduce the risk of stings.
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