In the spring, stinging insects like bees, hornets, and yellow jackets (wasps) begin to once again buzz around Indianapolis. The warm sunshine will draw them out of hiding, and they will start looking for places to build nests to keep their queens safe as they lay their eggs and raise their young.
Where Stinging Insects Nest
Unfortunately, there are many places in and around residential properties, yards, lawns, and homes that offer a great spot to begin building. Grass, old tree stumps, tree branches, bushes, eaves, porches, stacked firewood, and rock piles are all potential nesting sites.
What Attracts Stinging Insects To Our Yards And The Problems They Cause
As humans, we accidentally attract wasps to our yards with food products; sweet, sticky drinks; residue; and garbage. We also seem to accidentally disturb them, causing them to swarm and sting. Many stinging insects have smooth stingers that can sting multiple times, making their stings much more painful and dangerous.
It is well known that these insects are beneficial to the ecosystem since they are needed for pollination. We also know that they have no business living in close proximity to people. They can be downright dangerous, especially to those who are allergic to the venom that they inject when they sting. Plus, they are difficult pests to get rid of once they have made themselves at home in your yard.
Once summer arrives, the stinging insect season will be in full swing. Their activity will increase and they will cause fear, pain, and angst to people that are enjoying the great outdoors, picnics, barbecues, parties, playtime, and outdoor games.
Instead of getting caught in the middle of an invasion this year, get the help of a professional pest control service. Don't wait until you discover a ground nest inadvertently while mowing the lawn or playing with your kids in your yard.
Keeping Stinging Insects Out Of Your Yard
You can avoid some of the bees, wasps, and hornets by following these prevention tips:
- Check your chimney caps and plumbing mats to be sure they are not missing or damaged. Stinging insects are always looking for a place to build a nest, and you don’t want them building one in your chimney or attic area.
- Make sure your siding and shingles are properly repaired or replaced to keep them from getting under them or finding a hole to make a nest in.
- To keep these pests out of your home, be sure your screens are in place and are in good repair.
- During outdoor picnics and barbecues, keep foods and drinks covered, clean up spills immediately, keep kids' hands and faces free from sticky sweets, and be sure trash cans are covered with tight-fitting lids.
- Avoid wearing scented soaps, perfumes, shampoos, and brightly-colored clothing that can attract stinging insects to your body.
- Keep flowers, trees, and shrubbery a distance away from your home so they won’t be tempted to pollinate in close proximity to your home and family.
Getting Professional Help
Once you have tried these steps, further prevention will be needed. If you start seeing stinging insects on your property, or around your yard and home, you will need to contact a professional. Removing these dangerous insects on your own can prove to be painful if you do not have the proper gear, equipment, techniques, and knowledge necessary.
In Indianapolis, you can trust the professionals at Action Pest Control to solve your stinging insect problems. Our stinging insect control program offers a complete inspection and a personalized solution to meet your individual needs. Give us a call to find out more and get started. In the end, you will gain peace of mind that you can get back outside and enjoy the beautiful weather in your own backyard again.