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Paper Wasp Identification and Control in Utah
Correct identification is an important first step in pest control.
POLISTES SPP.
Paper wasps are 5/8 to 3/4 of an inch long. They are black with yellowish to white in the face and have no hairs. They have long legs that hang in flight and an abdomen that gradually slopes at the anterior end.
They appear longer and more slender than yellow jackets.
Paper wasps are social insects who’s colony dies off every fall, but fertilized queens will overwinter. Queens start new colonies every spring that will grow throughout the summer months.
Their nests can be found on building eaves, play equipment, benches, any hollow pipe, etc. or in plants and trees. Their nest is open, umbrella shaped with all wasps exposed.
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Paper wasps appear longer and more slender than yellowjackets.
Paper wasps have long legs that hang when flying.
Paper wasps are very social insects.
Paper wasp nests are open and umbrella shaped.
Why are they significant
Paper wasp nests pose a serious health risk to humans, but they are not as aggressive as yellow jackets or hornets.
Learn more by reading our blog post: Stinging Insect Guide: Bees, Hornets, & Wasps in Utah.
Name:
Polistes spp.
Diet:
Insects, nectar
Impact:
Health risk
Tips for keeping wasps away
What To Do About Wasps
Monitor for wasp nests from early summer through fall.
Purchase and use a bee veil, suit and gloves.
Minimize nesting habitat around property.
Install tight-fitting screens in windows.
How To Remove Nest
Wear protective bee veil, suit and gloves.
Early in the morning, crush the nest and remove it.
Clean nest area with soap and water to remove pheromones or else wasps will build another nest in the same place.
Don’t let wasps take over.
Thorn can help.
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Proper pest management starts with a detailed inspection and assessment from an expert pest professional before treatment. Thorn Pest Solutions uses a three-step process rooted in science to eliminate pests with long-term results.
Assess Situation
First, we identify the root problem(s) with a site assessment. Pests are almost always an indicator of an environmental condition. This will determine the best actions to provide short and your long-term results against pests.
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Next, we develop a plan to fix the problems we discovered. This includes solving current pest issues, eliminating conducive conditions, and monitoring for future pest activity. Good pest management starts with a good plan.
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Lastly, we implement the solutions we developed including inspection, monitoring, and preventing future pest infestations. Good pest control requires a good offense and not just defense. Prevention is key.
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