Are you seeing large, intimidating wasps buzzing around your Florida yard? While not all wasps are dangerous, it’s important to know how to identify the ones that are. Here’s what you need to know about killer wasps in Florida:
For non-aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For a nest up high in an eave, soffit, or tree, this Gotcha pole adapter clamps onto the can so you can spray from the end of an extension pole and treat the nest from 10+ feet away instead of standing right under it. And for anything aggressive I wear this ridiculous-looking upper torso beekeeping suit and keep my distance. It seems silly, but trust me, I learned the hard way.
Yellow jackets are a common sight in Florida backyards, but they can be aggressive and dangerous. These wasps have yellow and black stripes and are about 1/2 inch long. They build their nests in the ground or in protected areas like eaves and attics.
If you see yellow jackets in your yard, don’t disturb them. If you accidentally step on a nest, the entire colony may swarm and attack. Instead, call a professional pest control company to safely remove the nest.
Paper wasps are another type of wasp commonly found in Florida. These wasps are brown with yellow markings and are about 3/4 inch long. They build their nests in trees, shrubs, and other elevated areas.
While paper wasps aren’t as aggressive as yellow jackets, they can still sting if provoked. If you notice a paper wasp nest on your property, call a professional to remove it.
Hornets are larger than other wasps and have black and white markings. They build their nests in trees, shrubs, and other high places. Like yellow jackets, hornets can be very aggressive and dangerous.
If you see hornets in your yard, keep your distance and call a professional to remove the nest. Don’t try to remove it yourself, as this can be dangerous.
While wasps can be intimidating, most aren’t harmful unless provoked. However, if you notice yellow jackets, paper wasps, or hornets in your yard, it’s best to call a professional to remove the nest. Stay informed and stay safe when dealing with these potentially dangerous insects in your Florida backyard.
For a complete overview of wasp species found across North America, see our Wasp Identification: Complete Homeowner Guide.
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