Types of Wasps in Maine
It’s summertime in Maine and that means there are plenty of wasps buzzing about. In fact, as the calendar marches towards fall, there’s a very good chance you’ll see even more of these stinging insects around your home or maybe even inside it. In this blog post, we’ll identify the common types of wasps in Maine, explain why these stinging pests seem to kick into overdrive once late summer hits, and what property owners can do to protect against painful stings.
Here in Maine, the most common types of wasps we see are yellow jackets, paper wasps, and baldfaced hornets. If that last one surprised you, rest assured it’s not an error. Baldfaced hornets are in fact a species of wasp and not “true” hornets.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are easy to identify by their black abdomens and yellow bands. If you’re close enough to a yellow jacket, you might notice the lack of hair as well.
While considered social wasps, yellow jackets are very aggressive toward anyone or anything they perceive a threat and will sting if provoked. What’s more, yellow jackets are capable of stinging repeatedly.
If you’re ever mowing your lawn and are stung, it’s likely a yellow jacket on the attack. These wasps typically nest in the ground but will also establish nests under railroad ties and other landscaping materials, in bushes, or on low-hanging branches. Their nests can also be found under eaves, behind wall voids, and even inside homes.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps in Maine are typically brownish in color, but they also have yellow markings.
Like yellow jackets they are social wasps but their colonies tend to be smaller. Also, paper wasps are not as aggressive as yellow jackets but they will sting if threatened and are able to sting multiple times.
Paper wasps have very distinct looking nests. They are shaped like upside down umbrellas and are suspended from branches and shrubs as well as from porch ceilings, eaves, rafters, and other parts of homes and structures.
Baldfaced Hornets
Baldfaced hornets have smooth black bodies and predominantly white-patterned faces.
Like the other wasps mentioned above, baldfaced hornets can sting many times but are less likely to attack. Of course, they will defend their nests against threats so don’t be lulled into a false sense of security with the previous statement.
Baldfaced hornets typically build their nests several feet off the ground. Common nesting sites include trees, utility poles, homes, and other structures.
Wasps become more even more noticeable in late summer
During the spring and early summer months it’s common to spot wasps on your property and if you get too close, you’ll probably be stung. Other than that, they pretty much mind their own business until late summer and early fall when they start becoming more noticeable and problematic for property owners. Here are three reasons why.
Their nests are full
By the time late summer rolls around, wasp nests are practically bursting at the seams. That’s because they’ve spent the previous months growing their colonies and now, they’re running out of room and resources.
Their diet changes
During the early summer months, wasps need protein to function properly. As summer wanes though, their diet shifts from one filled with protein to one of carbs. Instead of searching for nectar and other natural resources that provide the protein they need, wasps will begin feeding on sugar and carbs and the easiest way to get them is to crash BBQ, picnics, and other events where there’s food present.
They become more aggressive
As plant nectar and other natural food sources deplete, wasps are more likely to hang out closer to you and your family in hopes of finding sugary drinks and other sweet treats to feed on. Unfortunately, this increases their aggressiveness and the chances of being stung.
How to avoid wasp stings
Since there are several more weeks of summer and all of fall to get through, we thought it a good idea to share a few stinging insect prevention tips.
Keep an eye out for nests
As you mow the lawn and take care of other home maintenance, keep a lookout for wasps nests. Don’t forget they could be down low, up high, or anywhere in between.
Pest-proof your home
To prevent wasps from nesting in the attic or anywhere else inside your home, you should seal all potential entry points on the exterior of the house.
Keep your food covered when eating outside
When eating outdoors, keep your dishes and drinks covered as much as possible. If you have an outdoor trash can at the ready, be sure to keep the lid on it as well. Also, pick of food remnants right away.
What to do if you spot a wasp nest on your property
If you’ve discovered a wasp nest too close to your home or you suspect that wasps have found a way into your home, reach out to Advanced Pest Solutions for help. Our locally owned and operated pest control company offers effective home pest control services in Manchester, Gardiner, and Camden as well as throughout our central and coastal Maine service area. We are ready to help you solve your stinging insect problem and our year-round solutions also stop house-infesting insects and rodents from taking over as well!