When you think of bumblebees and wasps, you likely think of spring and summertime. So why are they so abundant in the autumn? During this time of year, bee, hornet, and wasp populations are at their largest and often outgrow their nests. This will force yellow jackets out looking for more resources as well as a mate to survive the winter, which is why they tend to be more aggressive and active in residential areas. To keep these pesky stinging insects away from your backyard barbecue this fall, read on to learn some of Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s tips and tricks for preventing them.
What Attracts Yellow Jackets?
When summer comes to a close, the flowers and insects that are typically so abundant in the spring and summer begin to deplete. Wasps and yellow jackets are thus forced to expand their search, which is why they invade outdoor picnics and barbecues in the fall. Many stinging insects will settle for artificial food sources, such as those found near humans. In addition to food outdoors, yellow jackets will seek out sources of water, including swimming pools, hummingbird feeders, water fountains, and more. Lastly, they will look to form nests in eaves and holes around the foundation of homes.
How to Prevent Wasps in the Late Summer
Because yellow jackets can get aggressive in the fall as they seek out more resources to survive, it’s important to know how to keep them away from you and your family. Some of the things you can do to make your property less attractive to wasps include:
- Covering all food and trash cans with a tight-fitting lid.
- Don’t wear bright colors or fragrant perfumes.
- Seal any cracks or crevices around the perimeter of your property.
- Avoid walking barefoot through grassy areas where wasps may be lingering.
- Get rid of sources of standing water and place covers over pools.
Getting Professional Help for Yellow Jackets
If you’ve done all you can to prevent wasps from invading your property and they’re still making a presence at your outdoor events, it may be time to call for professional help. Especially when nests are involved, a pest control expert is needed to control the wasps in a way that is safe for you and your family. The team at Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s have the experience and knowledge needed to deal with aggressive fall wasps—call us today to learn more!