Stinging Insects

Wasps and Decks

As the spring rains give way to the abundant sunshine and steady heat of mid- summer, wasp activity reaches its peak.  Paper wasps build a simple nest consisting of one layer of open cells called “combs.” These nests typically hang suspended from horizontal surfaces that include but may not be limited to window ledges, shutters, overhangs, swing sets, decks, fences, gazebos and porch roofs. Stinging behavior is typically a defensive reaction that occurs when the wasps feel that the nest is threatened. Unfortunately human activity in the form of painting, power washing, roofing,…continue reading →

Yellow Jackets

Late summer and early fall is Yellow Jacket season in Indiana and Illinois. Yellow Jackets are easily identified by their black and yellow striping and are commonly noted in large numbers hovering around trash receptacles and dumpsters at fall festivals, picnic grounds, supermarkets and in residential areas. These are the “bees” that are especially attractive to sugars and are regularly noted swarming and entering unattended soda and beer cans thereby presenting a serious health risk to the consumers of these beverages. The cycle of nest building and reproduction begins slowly each spring since…continue reading →