Opinions on flying insects vary by species. For instance, most Winston-Salem residents don’t mind butterflies. They are known for being beautiful and harmless. Ladybugs have the same reputation. Flies don’t receive the same positive “reviews.” Folks deem them annoying for how they persistently swarm about, particularly if there’s food around. Mosquitoes are considered extremely dangerous. They suck blood from both humans and animals and transmit diseases in the process. Bees, wasps, and yellowjackets are also labeled as hazardous, due to their ability to sting.

Yellowjackets aren’t heavy pollinators like bees and wasps, but they still contribute to the environment by consuming other pests. Nevertheless, no home or business owner in Winston-Salem would want them on their property. If they strike, dire circumstances could be ahead. Learning more about these insects and how Ray's Pest Control & Wildlife Removal can assist you with them will help you prepare for prevention.

How Do Yellowjackets Look & Behave? What Are The Risks?

Yellowjackets are 3/8 to ⅝ of an inch long. While a few are black and white, most are black and yellow. Their coloration is why they get mistaken for bees. However, yellowjackets have thinner waists and less body hair. Also, their wingspan exceeds their body length.

If a yellowjacket enters your property, it’s because they are looking for nectar, meat, sweets, and other bugs to eat. Thus, don’t be surprised if you catch them swarming near your outdoor grills and garbage cans. They’ll build their paper-like nests by your patio or attic, or under your steps. Tree bases and cracks in foundations and sidewalks are also hot spots for them. Though they prefer to nest at ground level, they won’t turn down a bush or tree branch. If you see an aerial nest, there’s probably an infestation.

Stings by yellowjackets are painful, and cause swelling, redness, and a warming sensation at the site. It will also be very itchy. These pests can prick you more than once in seconds. Should that happen, or you’re allergic to their venom, you might experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Flushed skin
  • Fainting
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Convulsions
  • Cardiorespiratory arrest
  • Respiratory problems
  • Inflammation of the brain, nerves, or blood vessels
  • Kidney issues
  • Secondary bacterial infections

How Can You Prevent Yellowjackets?

Keeping yellowjackets off your property requires taking great care of the lawn and exterior. Slacking in these areas to avoid doing landscaping and structural maintenance work isn’t worth making your space vulnerable to these stinging insects. Here’s what you’ll need to do specifically:

  • Trim your plants, flowers, bushes, and shrubbery often.
  • Sit greenery at least two feet away from your exterior doors.
  • Clean decaying organic matter, debris, and trash from your yard, vents, and gutters.
  • Put garbage in an airtight canister, and avoid leaving food outside.
  • Close gaps around windows, doors, and foundations.
  • Call Ray's Pest Control & Wildlife Removal if you have problems with insects yellowjackets eat.

How Does Ray's Pest Control & Wildlife Removal Eliminate Yellowjackets?

On-going care from Ray's Pest Control & Wildlife Removal is the only way to ensure your property will stay yellowjacket-free. Trying to discard a nest or exterminate these critters on your own is not recommended. You could be attacked in the midst. Don’t risk having to go to the hospital. Let our team use their expertise and advanced equipment to handle things in a safe manner.

We pride ourselves on having state-certified technicians that can visit practically any time you need them to. We provide services that are reasonably priced and have guarantees attached. Call us today for a quote!