Stinging insects like wasps, hornets, and bees are common in Florida during the warmer months. While some species are relatively harmless, others can be aggressive and cause painful stings. Homeowners should understand how to recognize these pests and take precautions to stop nests from growing in their yards.
Identifying Stinging Insects in Your Florida Yard
- Bald-faced hornets are black with white markings and build large, papery nests in trees, shrubs, and buildings. These insects are aggressive when threatened and can deliver multiple stings.
- Bumblebees have broad, fluffy bodies with bands of yellow and black. They typically nest underground and are not aggressive unless provoked.
- Carpenter bees are large and resemble bumblebees, but their bodies are shiny and hairless. They create their nests by boring into wood, which can damage wooden structures.
- Cicada killer wasps are large and solitary, with black and yellow markings. They dig holes in the ground to create their nests and are not typically aggressive unless provoked.
- Honeybees are small and fuzzy, with golden-yellow and black stripes. They typically nest in hives and are not aggressive unless provoked.
- Mud daubers are slender, black wasps with long legs. They build nests out of the mud and are not typically aggressive unless provoked.
- Paper wasps are slender and have long, thin bodies with black and yellow stripes. They build small, open nests under eaves, trees, and other structures. They can be aggressive when threatened.
- Velvet ants are not ants but rather a type of wasp. They are hairy and brightly colored, with red and black markings. They are solitary and do not build nests, but their sting is excruciating.
- Yellow Jackets are small and yellow with black stripes. They can become very hostile when threatened and build nests in the ground, trees, and structures.
Preventing Stinging Insects in Your Florida Yard
Homeowners have several options for preventing stinging insects from building nests in their yards. These include:
- Seal gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior.
- Keep outdoor trash cans tightly sealed.
- Keep drinks and food covered when eating outside.
- Avoid wearing floral prints or bright colors, which can attract stinging insects.
- Keep your yard clean and clear of clutter.
- Keep your lawn trimmed and free of overgrowth.
- Remove any standing water from your yard, which can attract stinging insects.
Call a Professional Exterminator
Call a qualified exterminator immediately if you discover a nest in your yard. Removing the nest yourself can be hazardous and result in painful stings. Professional exterminators have the equipment and expertise to safely remove the nest and prevent the insects from returning. Additionally, a professional can help you identify areas of your yard that may attract stinging insects and offer tips for preventing future infestations.
During the warmer months, stinging insects are abundant in Florida. However, there are actions homeowners can take to keep them from building nests in their yards. Protect your family and house from stinging. Schedule an appointment for your expert extermination service with Bug Out Service today.
