Wasps aren't often wanted on Eugene, OR properties, but that doesn't stop them from invading. Most property owners have dealt with their fair share of wasp nests, and they can expect to have future encounters. Fortunately, there is a trick to keeping these dangerous insects away. Find out some helpful wasp prevention tips from the Eugene pest control experts.
Wasps In Eugene
The most common wasps in Eugene, OR include paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets. Although these flying insects look somewhat similar, there are a few defining factors. Paper wasps are known for their papery and flat or umbrella-like nests. Typically, the nests are under porches and in sheltered areas. The wasps themselves are mostly brown but have some yellow markings. Meanwhile, yellow jackets have a more striped appearance. They have distinctive yellow and black stripes on their bodies, with some color variations. Unlike paper wasps, yellow jackets are more likely to nest underground.
As far as hornets go, there are several varieties you might encounter. Cicada killers and bald-faced hornets are prevalent in Eugene. Like most other types of wasps, hornets tend to build nests around homes in sheltered areas. All of the local wasps are dangerous creatures. If you come across a nest, you could become a victim of multiple territorial stinging insects. Whether or not you have an allergic reaction, you will be in pain. The danger of wasps makes it essential to take measures to keep them away.
Knowing What Wasps Like
If you want to successfully keep wasps away, you need to know what they like. Although their exact preferences vary by species, most wasps are attracted to similar things. For instance, wasps like to eat sugary drinks and foods. They love crashing picnics with sodas, fruits, and sweet treats.
Wasps also seek out flowers. Although they're not as good at pollinating as bees, wasps are considered pollinators. They are attracted to flowering plants, as well as the insects that hang out near flowering plants. That brings us to another major attraction—other insects. For some wasps, there's nothing more appealing than caterpillars or insects. If you have a buggy yard, you might have an abundance of wasps.
Ways To Keep Wasps In Eugene, OR Away
You probably don't want wasps buzzing around at your next barbecue or swarming you when you accidentally approach their nest. So, what can you do to keep wasps away from your property? Follow these tips, and you may be able to protect your yard and your family from wasps:
- Reduce nesting areas: If there are no obvious places for wasps to build nests, they're more likely to stay away. Check your soffit for holes and try to make your roof overhang less accessible. Of course, there's no way to take away all areas for potential nests.
- Keep flowering plants away: You don't need flowers to have a beautiful garden. To keep wasps away, avoid planting flowery plants. Stick with herbs and other greenery, and keep your gardens far from your home or business.
- Seal up garbage cans: If you don't have lids on your garbage cans, you will have plenty of insects nearby. Don't give wasps a free and easy meal, and seal up your garbage cans with tight-fitting lids
- Look for nests: As soon as you find a wasp nest, take action to remove it. However, this doesn't mean you should get a bottle of wasp killer or a broom handle. There's only one safe way to remove a wasp nest, and that's to work with an experienced professional.
When it comes to wasp prevention and elimination, Infinity Pest Solutions can help. Our experienced local Oregon pest control experts have been serving Eugene, OR and the surrounding area for over 30 years. We offer home pest control with ongoing protection from wasps as well as other common household pests and can get to you quickly to resolve your pest problems. Our home pest control programs use the latest methods and tools for the most effective results. To learn more about our residential and commercial pest control plans or request a free estimate, give us a call today.