Arizona Wasps
If you live in Arizona, you may have encountered some of the many types of wasps that inhabit the state. Wasps are insects that belong to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. They have two pairs of wings, a narrow waist, and a stinger that they use for defense or hunting. Some wasps are solitary, meaning they live and nest alone, while others are social, meaning they form colonies with a queen and workers.
Wasps can be beneficial for the environment, as they pollinate plants and prey on other insects that can damage crops or gardens. However, they can also be a nuisance or a threat to humans, especially if they build their nests near homes or other structures. Some wasps can be aggressive and sting multiple times, causing pain, swelling, and allergic reactions.
In this article, we will discuss some of the common types of wasps in Arizona, how to identify them, how to avoid them, and how to deal with them if they become a problem.
Common Types of Wasps in Arizona
According to Animal of Things, there are 20 different types of wasps in Arizona. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Paper wasps: These are slender wasps with long legs and a narrow waist. They have yellow-brown bodies with black or red markings. They build papery nests that hang from trees, eaves, or other structures. They feed on flower nectar and small insects. They are generally not aggressive unless disturbed or threatened.
- Yellow jackets: These are smaller than paper wasps and have black and yellow stripes on their bodies. They build nests in the ground or in cavities like tree hollows or wall voids. They feed on sugary foods and proteins, such as fruits, meats, and garbage. They are very aggressive and will defend their nests fiercely.
- Mud daubers: These are solitary wasps that build nests out of mud. They are long and slender with a narrow waist and metallic blue-black bodies. They feed on spiders and other insects. They are not aggressive and rarely sting humans.
- Cicada killers: These are large wasps that resemble hornets. They have reddish-brown bodies with yellow markings and are about two inches long. They feed on cicadas, which they paralyze with their sting and then carry back to their underground nests. They are not aggressive but can be intimidating due to their size.
How to Avoid Wasps in Arizona
The best way to avoid wasps in Arizona is to prevent them from infesting your property in the first place. Here are some tips to keep wasps away:
- Keep your trash cans sealed tightly
- Seal up any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior
- Trim back bushes and shrubs near your home
- Don’t leave food or drinks outside for extended periods of time
- Plant wasp repelling plants around your home and in your garden, such as mint, basil, lavender, or marigolds
How to Deal with Wasps in Arizona
If you discover a wasp nest on your property, it’s important to proceed with caution. While some wasps are not aggressive, others will defend their nests fiercely if they feel threatened. Here are some tips for dealing with wasp nests:
- Don’t disturb the nest: If possible, avoid disturbing the nest. This will reduce the chances of provoking an attack.
- Call a professional: (Green Beard Pest Control Mesa Arizona) If the nest is in a hard-to-reach location or you’re not comfortable dealing with it yourself, call a professional pest control company to remove it.
- Use caution: If you do decide to tackle the nest yourself, wear protective clothing and approach it slowly and calmly. Use an insecticide specifically labeled for wasp control and follow the instructions carefully.
If you do get stung by a wasp, remove the stinger by scraping it off with a credit card or fingernail. Do not squeeze or pull it out, as this can release more venom into your skin. Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain. If you have an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, nausea, or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Wasps are common insects in Arizona that can be beneficial or harmful depending on the species and situation. By knowing how to identify them, how to avoid them, and how to deal with them if they become a problem, you can protect yourself and your property from these buzzing pests.