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Common Summer Stinging Pests in North Carolina

North Carolina is home to a variety of stinging pests, including wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants. These pests can turn into a problem during the summer months, as they are more active and likely to sting. In this blog, you will discover the several types of stinging pests found in your area and the ways you can prevent them from stinging you!

Types of Stinging Pests in North Carolina:

Wasps: Wasps are a type of stinging insect that can be identified by their thin waist and long, slender wings. They build paper nests in trees, bushes, and under the eaves of buildings.

Hornets: Hornets are like wasps but are larger and more aggressive. They build paper nests that are typically found high up in trees or on buildings.

Yellow jackets: Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that are easily recognized by their black and yellow striped bodies. They build underground nests and are often found near garbage cans or other food sources.

Fire ants: Fire ants are known to sting multiple times if they feel threatened. These ants are usually found in large mounds in open areas like lawns and fields.

Preventing Stings from Stinging Pests:

Avoid provoking stinging pests: The best way to prevent stings from stinging pests is to avoid provoking them. Try not to swat at them or disturb their nests.

Wear protective clothing: If you are going to be in an area where stinging pests are common, wear protective clothing like long pants and sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and gloves.

Keep food and garbage covered: Stinging pests are attracted to food and garbage. To prevent them from being attracted to your home, keep your food and garbage covered.

If you do experience a problem with stinging pests, consider contacting your local pest control company for an effective treatment.

Avoid Stinging Pests This Summer

Are stinging pests interfering with your summer barbecues? Stinging pests are most active in the summer and can impact your family’s fun. Check out these common stinging pests and the best way to avoid them!

Hornets

These pests are a bit larger than most stinging pests and can range from 3/4” to 1-3/8” long, with brown and yellow abdominal stripes on their body. Their nests are often built in hollow trees and the walls of houses and attics, although they prefer a forested environment. Hornets are attracted to light and can fly to your windows at night if they see a light on. They are relatively non-aggressive near the nest, but there is potential for a stinging hazard if threatened.

Wasps

Wasps are busy at work scavenging for food during the summer months. They typically build their nests in branches, porch ceilings, eaves, and attic rafters. You will find these pests highly attracted to backyard barbecues, increasing your chances of being stung. Wasps will sting multiple times if they feel threatened enough. They can also call in reinforcements from other wasps by emitting pheromones.

Yellowjackets

These social insects are anywhere humans are found. They measure 3/8” to 5/8” long and have a non-fuzzy black and yellow body. Yellowjackets feed on sweets and proteins; therefore, they commonly invade outdoor events. They can build their nests in either high places or in the ground. Examples include shrubs, garages, timber, logs, and more. If threatened, yellowjackets will sting multiple times, causing extreme pain and possible allergic reactions.

If you encounter these stinging pests, don’t swat them away. This action can provoke an attack. The best thing to do is to remain calm and they should fly away. If you suspect a stinging pest problem near your property, contact your local pest control company for a treatment and prevention plan.