How to Get Rid of Stinging Paper Wasps in Ocklawaha, FL; Wasp Nest Identification & More

In an effort to pilfer sweets and meats, wasps are stinging insects that are notorious for crashing picnics or BBQs. As most have come to fear their painful stings, wasps are normally identifiable. With the familiar sounds of buzzing overhead and the similar appearance to bees, their distinct form gives people fair warning of their presence. In Florida, the most common types of wasps are cicada killer wasps and paper wasps. Today, we at Pest 911 would like to share some information about the latter.

Paper Wasp Nest Identification

Paper wasps, scientifically known as Polistes, actually have several species that belong to this sub-family. Paper wasps are given this suggestive handle for a reason and that is that their nests look very much like it was made from paper. Chewed wood, along with other cellulose materials and saliva is used to build their nests. Paper nests look like round upside-down paper combs on in the inside, and basketballs on the outside as they are attached to horizontal surfaces by a single stalk. The nest expands as the colony grows and sometimes people will reference paper wasps as an umbrella wasp because their nests evolve into umbrella looking shapes.

Paper Wasp Identification

Paper wasps do not have fuzzy bodies, and average in length on a range of ½- 1 ½ inches long. Where some species will have bright stripes that can be yellow and red, their primary colors vary from orange to reddish-brown to dark red. Paper wasps contribute to the pollination as they feed on nectar, though they are not as effective as bees. They also benefit gardens as the feed on the harmful insects living their like caterpillars, that they feed to their young larvae.

Life Cycle of Paper Wasps

A single fertile female paper wasp is all that it takes to start a new colony. After their first brood matures, they continue working and expand the nest. The first brood become workers to get the colony started, the colony continues to grow, and they forage for food and caring for new larvae. The nests will be abandoned in late fall, early winter. The fertilized queens are the only survivors to begin the cycle of the paper wasps again as they emerge in spring to begin the process all over again.

Are Paper Wasps Aggressive?

Paper wasps are not out looking to bully people, contrary to belief. If there are any perceived threats to their nests, they will show aggression and attack anyone who gets too close to their queen. Delivering painful stings repeatedly, wasps will continue to sting, unlike bees who can sting once and die. People can demonstrate allergic reactions varying from mild to severe and most will notice pain and swelling.

Paper Wasp Sting Pain

Allergic reactions that are experienced where emergency medical services are called include the following:
– Lips, Eyelids, and/or Throat Swelling
– Hives
– Faintness, Dizziness, or Confusion
– Problems Breathing
– Rapid Heartbeat
– Cramps, Nausea, or Vomiting

Stinging Insect Control

Though somewhat beneficial, it is always best for people to have a professional remove the nests too close to home, simply due to the potential medical threat they pose. Removing a nest can be a challenge and doing it safely is even more problematic. To prevent harm to you or others, and ensure they wasps are effectively removed from the premises, you need the qualified technicians of Pest 911 and let our professionals get the job done. Contact us for all your pest control needs!