When Are Wasps Most Active
In late summer and early fall, it may become necessary to control wasps (including yellow jackets) in your yard. It is good to take care of the menacing insects before finding one inside your soda can as you are about to take a sip!
In August and September, these yellow stripey bugs can become aggressive scavengers. They are especially drawn to dead animals, fallen tree fruit, and picnic food. This may threaten outdoor activities including barbecuing and gardening.
Honey Bees vs Yellow Jackets vs Wasps
The first thing to do is correctly identify the insect you are dealing with. Wasps have a slender body, cylindrical legs, and appear to have shiny, smooth skin. Yellow jackets are a different kind of the same variety of wasp. They are typically more aggressive, though their sting hurts less. Bees are full-bodied and very hairy compared to yellow jackets. Their hind legs are flattened for collecting and transporting pollen. (Try to leave the bees alone so they can do their pollinating!)
How to Get Rid of Wasps and Yellow Jackets
We recommend using Wasp Rescue Traps. They work like a charm for yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets (read instructions carefully when dealing with nests and insects). At our Portland garden center, we carry the traps to meet your needs, and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
How to Keep Yellow Jackets Away from a Picnic
If you are heading to a picnic or camping trip, we have a wasp solution for you! Rescue makes a small, flat trap that is easy to pack with you. Camp dinners will be more enjoyable with one of these traps hanging from a nearby tree.
When Do Wasps sleep?
Remember to be careful when dealing with stinging insects. It is best to set up traps in the evening when the temperatures cool and wasps slow down. Always read and follow instructions carefully.