Have you ever gone to a July 4th barbecue and immediately found yourself, your food, and your drinks overwhelmed by wasps? Has the same thing happened on Labor Day? If every season had an official pest, then the wasp would undoubtedly be the Scourge of Summer. But why is that the case? And what can you do about it?

Wasp populations always start with queens. Wasp queens typically hide in safety during the winter and begin building their nests in late spring. By May, they are laying eggs and rapidly growing their populations. When July rolls around, a large population of workers is sent out into the wild to forage for food to bring home to the nest, and they happen to love summer sweets and savories ranging from meat to candy to soda.

That’s why outdoor gatherings become prime targets for hungry wasps. Backyard cookouts, pool parties, picnics, and outdoor festivals all provide easy access to food and sugary drinks. Open soda cans, overflowing trash bins, fruit trays, and grilling meats can quickly attract stinging insects looking for a quick meal. Unfortunately, once one wasp finds a food source, others may soon follow.

While wasp problems during your big day off may be nerve-wracking, it’s important to note that foraging wasps are generally less aggressive than wasps defending their nests. That said, they will absolutely defend themselves if threatened. Some species are more aggressive than others, with Yellow Jackets being known for being particularly quick to go on the attack. Unlike honey bees, many wasps can sting repeatedly, which makes encounters even more unpleasant for unsuspecting homeowners and guests.

While wasp stings can be quite painful, they are rarely dangerous to anyone without an allergy. Still, safety precautions are always a good idea if you want to keep the sting out of your summer. Wasps will pursue the scent of available food, so it’s important to keep food covered or in containers when outside. This prevents the scent of your food from attracting unwanted wasp problems. Wasps aren’t above stealing food waste from trash receptacles, so it’s important to keep your garbage cans closed.

It’s also a good idea to inspect your property regularly for signs of nesting activity. Wasps commonly build nests under decks, inside sheds, beneath railings, around roof eaves, and even underground, depending on the species. Catching a nest early in the season can help prevent a small problem from becoming a major infestation later in the summer when colonies are at their peak size.

Homeowners should avoid trying to remove active nests on their own, especially larger nests or those located in hard-to-reach places. Disturbing a nest can quickly provoke defensive behavior and increase the risk of multiple stings.

If wasps are taking over your yard, Viking Pest Control can help. Our trained professionals can identify the species, locate nesting sites, and safely perform wasp extermination and wasp nest removal from around your home. Don’t let stinging insects ruin your summer celebrations. Contact Viking Pest Control today for award-winning wasp control to protect your property and enjoy your outdoor spaces with greater peace of mind all season long.

Having stinging insects on your property is always cause for concern, especially for households with children, pets, or elderly family members. Whether it’s hornets, yellow jackets, or wasps, these pests can cause painful stings, allergic reactions, and in some cases, serious medical emergencies. Stinging Insect Removal is a task not to be undertaken lightly. 

Identifying Stinging Insects in NJ, PA, DE, and MD

Stinging insects come in many forms, and knowing what’s buzzing around your property can help you understand the risks involved. Here are some of the the most common types of stinging insects we encounter throughout the Mid-Atlantic region:

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are easily identified by their bright yellow and black bodies, narrow waists, hairless hind legs, six legs, large antennae, and size ranging from 3/8 to 5/8 of an inch. Their nests, often hidden, are constructed from chewed wood fiber that resembles paper mâché and have small entrances about the size of a nickel. Yellow jackets rarely travel more than a mile from their colonies, so frequent sightings likely mean a nest is nearby. They are attracted to food sources like grilling meats, sweets, open trash, and food residue, especially sugars, carbs, and proteins. It can be very tricky to get rid of Yellow Jackets given their aggressiveness and their tendency nest underground.

Hornets

Hornets are often mistaken for bees or other wasps, but can be identified by their larger size, averaging 1.25 inches but growing over 2 inches long, and their rounder, plumper bodies with a pronounced abdomen and large head. Their coloring typically includes yellow-orange and black stripes, though some may appear more red or brown. Unlike bees, hornets can sting multiple times without losing their stinger, and their venom is more potent, making their stings especially painful. While generally less aggressive than other wasps, hornets will defend their nests if threatened.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are commonly found building their distinctive open-comb nests under eaves and overhangs. They are brown with yellow or reddish markings and are more slender than bees. They are 5/8 of an inch to just shy of a full inch long. Paper wasp removal is not a task to be taken lightly. While typically less aggressive than yellow jackets, they will defend their nests if provoked. 

 

 

Why DIY Removal is Dangerous

Attempting to remove stinging insects on your own is risky business. Disturbing a nest can lead to numerous painful stings, and for those allergic to bee, wasp, or hornet venom, the consequences can be severe — even life-threatening. Allergic reactions can include swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis, all of which require immediate medical care.

Rather than risking your safety, let Viking Pest Control handle the job quickly and safely.

Why Choose Viking Pest Control for Stinging Insect Removal

When you work with Viking Pest Control, you’re partnering with a trusted team with decades of experience protecting homes and businesses across NJ, PA, DE, and MD’s Eastern Shore. We don’t just remove stinging insects; we eliminate the source and ensure your home remains protected against future infestations.

Our highly trained pest professionals use specialized equipment and proven techniques to safely remove active nests from your property, whether they’re tucked under your deck, inside a wall void, or high in a tree. With Viking, you can trust the job will be done right — safely, efficiently, and thoroughly.

Tips for Preventing Stinging Insects

While professional pest control is your best line of defense, here are some proactive steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of stinging pests setting up shop on your property:

1. Store sweet foods securely. Keep fruits, syrups, and sugary items sealed or refrigerated.
2. Maintain your yard. Regularly mow the lawn, trim overgrown trees, and remove yard debris like fallen leaves.
3. Strategically place flowers. Keep flowering plants and gardens a safe distance from your home’s entrances.
4. Check your home’s exterior. Ensure windows and doors are tightly sealed and screens are intact.
5. Properly manage trash. Store garbage in tightly lidded containers and keep compost piles covered.
6. Inspect regularly. Look for signs of nests under eaves, in shrubs, or even holes in the ground where wasps may burrow.

Don’t Let Stinging Insects Take Over Your Yard

If bees, wasps, or hornets have made your property their home, don’t try to tackle the problem yourself. Trust the experts at Viking Pest Control to remove the infestation safely and ensure your family and pets stay protected.

Call Viking Pest Control today or request a free estimate. We make pest control easy, so you can get back to enjoying your home — sting-free.

As the weather warms up, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets begin to emerge in full force. These stinging insects can pose serious risks to your family, pets, and property if left unchecked. Early prevention is essential to keep your home and yard safe—and Viking Pest Control is here to help with expert solutions tailored to your region.

Why Wasp Prevention Is Important

Wasp infestations are more than just a nuisance. Their stings can be painful and even dangerous for those with allergies. Beyond the health risks, wasps may build nests in eaves, attics, sheds, and other structures, potentially causing property damage and long-term pest problems.

Working with a trusted pest control provider like Viking Pest ensures your home receives the most effective and proactive wasp prevention available in the Mid-Atlantic region.

 

Common Wasp Species in NJ, MD, DE, and PA

While different species of wasps are active across our service areas, the most common you’ll encounter include:

•    Paper Wasps – Recognizable by their umbrella-shaped open-comb nests, they typically nest under eaves and ledges. They feed on nectar, small insects, and fruit.

•    Cicada Killers – Large solitary wasp species common in the region. Cicada Killers may look intimidating but are generally non-aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked.

•    Mud Daubers – Solitary and less aggressive, these wasps build tube-shaped nests out of mud. They’re known for hunting spiders to feed their young.

•    Yellow Jackets – Highly aggressive and often nesting in the ground or within wall cavities, yellow jackets are frequent uninvited guests at outdoor meals and trash bins.

 

Knowing the species helps Viking Pest develop precise treatment and prevention strategies that address the unique behavior of each type.

 

Why Wasps Might Be Targeting Your Yard

There are several reasons wasps are attracted to your yard or home:

•    Abundant Food Sources – Open trash, pet food, sugary drinks, or compost can attract foraging wasps.
•    Water Access – Standing water in birdbaths, gutters, or plant pots is a magnet for thirsty wasps.
•    Nesting Opportunities – Sheds, attic vents, soffits, and even wall voids provide safe harborage.
•    Pollinator Activity – While wasps do help control pests, an overpopulation can harm beneficial pollinators like bees, potentially disrupting your garden's ecosystem.

Wasp infestations can escalate quickly, so taking early action is critical.

5 Simple, Effective Tips to Prevent Wasps

Here are five proven steps to help reduce the risk of wasps on your property:

1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks or gaps in siding, vents, and soffits.
2. Remove Food Sources: Keep outdoor eating areas clean, tightly seal trash cans, and store pet food indoors.
3. Eliminate Standing Water: Fix leaks and empty containers that collect rainwater.
4. Use Natural Deterrents: Plant wasp-repelling herbs like mint, eucalyptus, or citronella near high-traffic areas.
5. Install Wasp Traps: Set out baited traps early in the season to catch queens before they build nests.

If you're already seeing signs of wasp activity, it may be time to bring in the professionals.

 

Total Wasp Control with Viking Pest

At Viking Pest Control, we understand the unique challenges of pest control across New Jersey, Maryland's Eastern Shore, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Our team of local experts uses cutting-edge, eco-friendly solutions to safely remove wasps and prevent their return. We offer customized residential and commercial treatment plans designed around your property’s needs.

Whether you’re dealing with a few foraging wasps or a large hidden nest, Viking has your back. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and learn how our SMART pest control technologies and family-safe products can protect your home—season after season.

 

Nothing ruins an enjoyable summer day faster than annoying insects, especially wasps. These pests pose a particular threat as they are aggressive and capable of repeated stings. Stay safe outside by learning what to do if you find a nest on your property.

Types of Wasp Nests Found in PA, NJ, DE, and MD

If you notice a lot of wasps around your home or business, it's a safe bet that there's a nest nearby. Know what you are dealing with by familiarizing yourself with these common types of wasp nests found in the area:

Mud Daubers: Mud daubers reach a size of ½ to 1 inch and don't normally attack humans. They have thin, black bodies with bright markings and a metallic sheen. A unique trait of mud daubers is their nest-building habits. Instead of building large nests together, each insect constructs a small nest out of mud or clay to house themselves and any offspring. The nests look like they are made out of mud pipes and you can often see the individual chambers that each hold an egg. You may find their nests on the sides of buildings.

 

Paper Wasps: Growing to a size of ¾ to 1 inch, paper wasps are either dark brown or black and have antennae tipped with orange. They construct small nests out of grayish paper-like materials that form hexagon-shaped cells. They place them under the eaves of buildings, in rafters, or in trees and shrubs. This species is less aggressive than other wasps and typically only sting when threatened.

 

Yellow Jackets: These black and yellow wasps grow to about 1/2 inch. They build spherical nests that appear as though they are wrapped up in gray bandages, with a single hole located on the bottom. The nests can get as large as a basketball. Yellow jackets build their nests in high branches of trees and shrubs, inside the protection of structures, and even underground. They prefer hidden spaces, so stay alert. People discovering Yellow Jacket hives by stepping into them is surprisingly common. If you've seen yellow jackets in the area, tread carefully. 

 

Hornets: These insects are a little larger than wasps, growing up to 2 inches. They have brown or black bodies with yellow-orange markings. Their hives are large, built using the pulp of chewed-up wood, and placed high off the ground. Hornets don't often sting unless they feel threatened, but they will swarm humans.

If you suspect there's a wasp nest nearby, you can often find it by observing the insects or inspecting your property.

What to Do If You Spot a Wasp Nest in Your Yard

The DIY approach to wasp nest removal is dangerous, so proceed with caution. If you choose to get rid of a wasp nest yourself, dress in layers of tightly woven fabric to protect yourself from stingers. Cover as much skin as possible, including wrapping a scarf or bandana over your face. 

You can apply a spray treatment from afar to keep your distance while killing wasps. Another option is pouring boiling water on the nest to kill the wasps, but this can be dangerous. Whatever you choose, it's best to approach the nest at night and act quickly.

Get Professional Wasp Control from Viking Pest

There are numerous risks to treating wasp nests yourself. Some sprays can discolor roof tiles or siding. In some cases, wasp treatments have been known to melt vinyl siding. Getting stung is a more obvious risk. Unlike bees, wasps can sting repeatedly and some species of wasps are especially aggressive when protecting their nests. This is especially dangerous if you have an allergy. If you haven't been stung before, keep the possibility that you might be allergic in mind.  It's important to note that professional pest control technicians where specialized bee suits to deal with stinging insects. 

 

While it's possible to remove a wasp nest yourself, it's usually best to call a professional pest control expert, especially if you have a dangerous allergy to wasp stings. Viking Pest Control can handle all your wasp control needs safely and effectively, no matter what type of wasp you are dealing with. Schedule a free wasp control estimate today. 

Warm weather in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland means more time spent outdoors — but it also means wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets are becoming active again. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, gardening, or relaxing on the patio, the last thing you want is to accidentally disturb a nest of aggressive stinging insects.

Not all wasps behave the same way. Some are relatively docile and rarely sting, while others can become highly aggressive if they feel threatened. Knowing which type of wasp you’re dealing with can help you better understand the risks around your home and when it’s time to call the professionals at Viking Pest Control.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are among the most aggressive stinging insects homeowners encounter. These social wasps live in large colonies and are notorious for defending their nests aggressively. They are easy to recognize by their bright yellow and black coloring and compact bodies.

Unlike bees, yellow jackets can sting multiple times and often attack in groups. Their nests are commonly found underground, inside wall voids, beneath decks, or attached to shrubs and structures around the home. During late summer and early fall, yellow jackets become especially aggressive as food sources become scarce.

If you notice yellow jackets repeatedly flying in and out of the same area of your yard, there’s a good chance a nest is nearby.

Hornets

Hornets are technically a type of wasp, but they are larger and often more intimidating than yellow jackets. Most hornets in the Mid-Atlantic region build large, enclosed paper nests high in trees, under rooflines, or attached to homes and sheds.

Hornets are social insects that live in organized colonies with queens, workers, and drones. While they generally won’t sting unless provoked, disturbing a hornet nest can trigger an aggressive swarm response.

Their stings are painful and may be dangerous for anyone with allergies to stinging insects. Because hornet nests are often located high above the ground, attempting DIY removal can be especially risky.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are slightly less aggressive than yellow jackets, but they can still sting when they feel threatened. These wasps are known for their long legs, slender waists, and brown or reddish coloring with yellow markings.

Their nests resemble upside-down umbrellas and are often found hanging beneath eaves, porch ceilings, railings, shutters, and deck structures. Paper wasps create these nests by chewing wood fibers into a paper-like material.

While paper wasps tend to be less confrontational away from the nest, they are very protective once someone gets too close to their colony.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are one of the less aggressive wasps homeowners may encounter. These solitary wasps build small tube-shaped nests out of mud in garages, sheds, attics, under eaves, and along porch ceilings.

Mud daubers are recognizable by their long, thin bodies and metallic black or blue coloring. Unlike social wasps, they do not live in large colonies and rarely sting humans unless directly handled.

Although they are less dangerous than yellow jackets or hornets, their nests can still become a nuisance around the home.

Cicada Killers

Cicada killers are large ground-nesting wasps commonly seen during the summer months. Despite their intimidating size, these wasps are generally not aggressive toward people.

Female cicada killers dig burrows in the soil and use paralyzed cicadas as food for their young. You’ll often spot them around bare patches of dirt, gardens, sidewalks, or landscaped areas.

Male cicada killers may appear territorial, but they do not have stingers. Females can sting but rarely do unless physically threatened.

Why Wasps Around Your Home Can Become Dangerous

While wasps do help control other insect populations, they become a serious concern when they nest near homes, patios, playgrounds, walkways, or outdoor gathering spaces.

Stinging insects can be especially dangerous because:

• Many species can sting multiple times
• Some wasps attack in swarms
• Their nests are often hidden underground or inside structures
• Stings can trigger severe allergic reactions
• Aggressive species become more active in late summer and fall

Attempting to remove a nest yourself can quickly escalate the situation, especially with yellow jackets and hornets. DIY sprays often fail to eliminate the entire colony and may provoke surviving wasps into becoming even more aggressive.

How to Help Prevent Wasps Around Your Property

Homeowners can reduce the chances of attracting wasps by taking a few preventative measures:

• Keep trash cans tightly sealed
• Clean up fallen fruit and sugary spills outdoors
• Avoid leaving pet food outside
• Seal cracks and gaps around siding and rooflines
• Fill ground holes that could become nesting sites
• Trim overgrown shrubs and tree branches
• Remove old nests during the winter months

Regular inspections around decks, eaves, sheds, and attics can also help catch nests before colonies grow larger.

Professional Wasp Control From Viking Pest Control

If you’ve noticed wasps flying around your property or discovered a nest near your home, it’s best not to take chances. Some species become extremely aggressive when disturbed, and removing nests without proper equipment can be dangerous.

Viking Pest Control has decades of experience helping homeowners throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland safely eliminate wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and other stinging insects. Our trained technicians can identify the species, locate hidden nests, and provide safe, effective treatment solutions designed to protect your family and property.

Call Viking Pest Control at 800-618-2847 to learn more about professional wasp and stinging insect control services, or get a fast, free quote online today!

Nothing ruins time outside faster than discovering a wasp nest near your home. Whether they’re hovering around your deck, nesting under your roofline, or swarming near your yard, wasps can quickly become a serious safety concern for homeowners throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Unlike bees, wasps can sting repeatedly and often become aggressive when they feel threatened. Some species, especially yellow jackets and hornets, may even attack in swarms. Because of this, removing a wasp nest is not something homeowners should take lightly.

Before attempting DIY wasp removal, it’s important to understand the risks, how to identify the type of wasp you’re dealing with, and when it’s safest to call a professional.

Why Wasps Around Your Home Are Dangerous

While wasps do help control some insect populations, they become a major problem when they build nests close to people.

Wasps can:

• Sting multiple times
• Become aggressive when disturbed
• Swarm to defend their nest
• Trigger dangerous allergic reactions
• Build nests inside walls, attics, soffits, and rooflines

During late summer and early fall, wasps become even more aggressive as food sources begin to disappear. This is when many homeowners first notice large numbers of wasps around trash cans, outdoor meals, gardens, and entryways.

Common Types of Wasps and Stinging Insects

Correctly identifying the insect is important because nesting habits and aggression levels vary significantly.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are among the most aggressive stinging insects homeowners encounter. They are black and yellow, about half an inch long, and often build nests:

• Underground
• Inside wall voids
• Under decks
• In shrubs
• Around structures

Their colonies can become very large and highly defensive.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are slightly larger with long, slender bodies and orange-tipped antennae. They create umbrella-shaped paper nests commonly found:

• Under eaves
• Porch ceilings
• Deck railings
• Tree branches

They are generally less aggressive unless their nest is disturbed.

Hornets

Hornets are larger than typical wasps and build large hanging nests made from wood pulp. Their nests are commonly found:

• In trees
• On utility poles
• Under rooflines
• Near sheds or garages

Hornets can become extremely aggressive if approached.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are less aggressive solitary wasps that build small mud nests on walls, garages, sheds, and ceilings. While intimidating in appearance, they rarely sting unless handled directly.

Signs You May Have a Wasp Nest

Homeowners often discover wasp problems after noticing:

• Increased wasp activity around the home
• Buzzing sounds in walls or attics
• Wasps entering and exiting small openings
• Hanging paper nests
• Underground insect traffic
• Wasps gathering near trash cans or outdoor food

Observing flight patterns during the daytime can often help identify where the nest is located.

Why DIY Wasp Nest Removal Can Be Dangerous

Many homeowners attempt to remove nests themselves using store-bought sprays or homemade remedies. Unfortunately, this often leads to painful stings or larger infestations.

Some of the biggest DIY risks include:

• Wasps swarming during treatment
• Falls from ladders while spraying nests
• Wasps entering the home through wall voids
• Incomplete elimination of the colony
• Exposure to pesticides
• Harm to pets or children

Wasps also release alarm pheromones when threatened, which signals nearby colony members to attack.

Even at night, when wasps are less active, disturbing a nest can trigger an aggressive response within seconds.

How to Help Prevent Wasps Around Your Home

While prevention cannot guarantee wasps stay away entirely, it can greatly reduce the chances of nesting near your home.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for:

• Cracks and gaps
• Open soffits
• Damaged siding
• Gaps around roofing
• Openings near vents and utility lines

Wasps can squeeze into surprisingly small spaces.

Eliminate Food Sources

Wasps are attracted to both proteins and sugary foods depending on the season.

To reduce attraction:

• Keep trash cans sealed tightly
• Clean outdoor eating areas promptly
• Pick up fallen fruit
• Avoid leaving pet food outside
• Cover drinks during outdoor gatherings

Maintain Your Yard

Reduce nesting opportunities by:

• Filling ground holes
• Trimming shrubs and tree branches
• Removing yard debris
• Inspecting sheds and playsets regularly

Use Wasp-Repelling Plants

Certain plants may help discourage wasps near patios and entryways, including:

• Citronella
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Eucalyptus
• Wormwood

Should You Remove a Wasp Nest Yourself?

Small, easily accessible nests may sometimes be removed safely with proper protective equipment and extreme caution. However, homeowners should never attempt DIY removal if:

• The nest is large
• The nest is inside walls or attics
• You are allergic to stings
• The nest is difficult to access
• The insects appear highly aggressive
• Children or pets are nearby

Professional pest control technicians use specialized protective equipment, treatment methods, and safety procedures designed to eliminate wasp colonies effectively and safely.

Professional Wasp Control in NJ, PA, DE, and MD

If wasps are nesting around your home, don’t put yourself at risk trying to handle the problem alone. Viking Pest Control provides safe, professional wasp and stinging insect control throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Our trained technicians can identify the species, locate hidden nests, safely eliminate active colonies, and help prevent future infestations around your property.

Call Viking at 800-618-2847 to learn more about wasp pest control and extermination services, or get a fast, free quote online today!

Did you know that wasps can sting multiple times? In particular, it's the females who can do so.

If you have young children or you're allergic to stings, then having wasps on your property can be a real problem.

Here are 4 types of wasp nests you should look out for in NJ, PA, DE, and MD.

1. Yellowjackets

Yellowjackets are wasps that you commonly see flying about. However, their nests will be in hidden spaces, such as underground, in cupboards, and even in the empty spaces in your walls.

Their nests look like a ball that's been encased in gray bandages, with a single hole on the bottom. You won't be able to see the hexagonal cells, as the insides are completely encased.

Because they make their nests in such hidden spaces, you may not be aware of them at first. But if you notice yellowjackets coming in and out of somewhere, investigate further.

You'll probably then discover holes in the ground. This is most likely the entrances to the various nests underground.

2. Paper Wasps

Paper wasps will build what's called an umbrella nest, which is considered an exposed type of nest. You'll usually find these under branches, eaves, or rafters of your home.

You'll know it's a paper wasp nest when you look up and the nest looks like it's made of grayish paper (hence their name). You'll also be able to see the typical bee/wasp nest shapes of hexagonal cells.

Typically, these nests are very lightweight when compared to the other types of wasp nests.

3. Cicada Killers

Unlike the other wasps on this list, cicada killers don't have nests. Instead, they dig.

For this reason, there are barely any signs of a wasp nest. You'll have to look around areas with lots of sand and soil.  about a foot into soil and lay their eggs there. Inside, there are different cells where the females lay their eggs in.

4. Mud Daubers

Mud daubers (or mud wasps) are aptly named so because they make their nests out of either mud or clay. You'll usually find them on the sides of buildings.

Their nests are very unique looking, as they aren't in a circular shape. Instead, they consist of what looks like mud pipes. You'll also notice individual chambers, which contain a single egg.

What makes mud dauber nests stand out against the rest is they don't have hexagonal cells.

Keep an Eye Out for These Types of Wasp Nests

Now that you know what the types of wasp nests are in NJ, PA, DE, and MD make sure you keep an eye out for them.

If you notice any of these nests on your property, then make sure you give a professional pest control company, like Viking Pest, a call. We will be able to effectively and safely remove the nest with the proper protective equipment so you're not in danger anymore.

Have you noticed a wasp nest on your property? Then schedule an appointment with us now. Our pest control experts will help you get rid of wasps quickly and effectively. Get a fast, free quote online, or call us today at 1-800-618-2847. 

Summer in New Jersey brings longer days, warmer weather, and more time outdoors—but it also means an increase in stinging insects. Bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets become highly active during this season, making backyard activities, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings more difficult and sometimes dangerous.

While there are steps homeowners can take to reduce stinging insect activity around their property, heavy infestations should always be handled by a professional pest control company.

Common Stinging Insects Found in New Jersey

Many people refer to all stinging insects as “bees,” but several different species are commonly found around homes in the Northeast.

These include:

• Bumble bees
• Honey bees
• Wasps
• Hornets
• Yellow jackets
• Carpenter bees

Some of these insects are beneficial pollinators, while others are more aggressive and territorial. Because of this, correctly identifying the species is important before attempting any removal. Misidentification can lead to unnecessary harm to beneficial insects—or dangerous encounters with aggressive stinging insects.

How to Prevent Stinging Insects Around Your Home

Reducing stinging insect activity starts with making your property less attractive to them. These insects are constantly searching for food, water, and safe nesting sites.

Keep Food and Trash Secure

Stinging insects are strongly attracted to food sources, especially meats and sugary substances. To reduce activity:

• Keep trash cans tightly sealed
• Clean up outdoor food and spills quickly
• Avoid leaving food uncovered during outdoor gatherings
• Remove rotting fruit, garden waste, or debris from your yard

Eliminate Standing Water

Stinging insects need water to survive. Check your property regularly for:

• Standing water in buckets or containers
• Clogged gutters or poor drainage areas
• Bird baths or pet water bowls left outside

Reduce Attractive Scents and Colors

Certain scents and visuals can attract stinging insects:

• Avoid wearing perfumes or scented lotions outdoors
• Skip bright, floral-patterned clothing when possible
• Use caution with sweet-smelling products during outdoor activities

Stay Aware Outdoors

Awareness is key when spending time outside:

• Watch for ground nests, especially yellow jackets
• Avoid swatting or sudden movements near stinging insects
• Be cautious when mowing lawns or working near brush or wood piles

How to Prevent Yellow Jacket Nests

Yellow jackets are one of the most aggressive stinging insects during summer months. They often build nests underground or in hidden voids, making them difficult to detect.

To help prevent nests:

• Inspect your yard regularly for holes or ground activity
• Seal cracks and gaps in siding, foundations, and eaves
• Check vents, chimneys, and utility entry points
• Keep grass trimmed and landscaping well maintained
• Avoid disturbing potential nesting areas

Even small vibrations—like mowing the lawn—can trigger defensive behavior if a nest is nearby.

Professional Stinging Insect Removal

When stinging insects establish a nest on your property, DIY removal is risky and often ineffective. Disturbing a nest can trigger aggressive swarming behavior and increase the risk of multiple stings.

A professional pest control company can:

• Identify the type of stinging insect
• Locate hidden nests
• Safely remove active colonies
• Provide preventative treatments to reduce future activity
• Offer long-term inspection and maintenance plans

Professional inspection also helps identify conditions around your home that may be attracting stinging insects in the first place.

First Aid for Stings and Bites

Even with precautions, stings can still happen. Most reactions are mild, but proper care can help reduce discomfort and prevent complications.

If you are stung:

• Remove any visible stinger if present
• Wash the area with soap and water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Use hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion for itching
• Take an antihistamine if needed for allergic response
• Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or an infection develops

In cases of severe allergic reactions, immediate medical attention is required.

Protecting Your Home From Stinging Insects with Viking Pest Control

Stinging insects are more than a seasonal nuisance—they can pose a serious risk to families, especially for those with allergies. Preventative maintenance and professional pest control are the most effective ways to reduce the risk of infestations.

Regular inspections and proactive treatments help ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and pest-free throughout the summer season. Contact Viking today!

Stinging insects like yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, bumblebees, and carpenter bees are more than just a nuisance during warmer months in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. They can quickly turn a normal day in your yard into a stressful—and potentially dangerous—situation, especially when nests are nearby.

While some stinging insects are relatively docile, others become highly aggressive when threatened. Attempting to deal with them on your own can easily escalate the situation and increase the risk of multiple stings.

This is why pest control professionals strongly recommend addressing infestations early and properly, before they become a serious hazard.

Common Stinging Insects You May Encounter

Yellow jackets and wasps are among the most aggressive stinging insects homeowners deal with. They are extremely territorial and will defend their nests aggressively, often stinging multiple times. They are also highly attracted to sugary drinks and food, which makes outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and pool days especially risky. A single misplaced sip from an open can or cup can quickly turn into a sting incident.

Their nests are typically made of a paper-like material and can be found in trees, shrubs, wall voids, eaves, and other sheltered outdoor areas.

Bumblebees are generally less aggressive, but they will sting if their nest is disturbed or they feel threatened. Unlike honeybees, they can sting more than once, making accidental encounters painful and unpredictable. Their nests are often located in the ground, under decks, or in protected cavities.

Bald-faced hornets are among the most defensive stinging insects. Their nests can grow large and are often suspended in trees or attached to structures. These insects will respond quickly and aggressively if their nest is approached, sometimes swarming in large numbers.

Carpenter bees may appear intimidating as they hover around wood structures, decks, and eaves. While males cannot sting, they can be persistent and territorial, and females can sting if handled or provoked. Their real threat is structural damage, as they bore tunnels into untreated or unpainted wood, weakening it over time.

Why DIY Stinging Insect Removal Is Risky

Many homeowners consider handling nests themselves, but this often leads to dangerous outcomes. Stinging insects react quickly to disturbances, and even a small disruption can trigger a swarm response. This can result in multiple stings in seconds, especially with yellow jackets and hornets.

Over-the-counter sprays may not reach the nest effectively, and incomplete treatment can make the colony more defensive and harder to control later. In addition, misidentifying the insect can lead to destroying beneficial pollinators like honeybees, which should be relocated—not eliminated.

The reality is simple: once a nest is active, especially in high-traffic areas, DIY removal is rarely worth the risk.

Signs You May Have a Stinging Insect Problem

You may be dealing with a nest if you notice:

• Increased insect activity in one specific area of your yard
• Repeated flying patterns in and out of the same hole, crack, or structure
• Buzzing sounds near eaves, decks, or sheds
• Visible paper-like nests in trees, shrubs, or building overhangs
• Wood damage or small holes (common with carpenter bees)

If any of these signs are present, it’s best not to investigate closely—especially during peak activity hours.

How Professionals Handle Stinging Insects Safely

Professional pest control technicians are trained to:

• Identify the exact species involved
• Locate hidden nests in walls, ground areas, and structures
• Apply targeted treatments designed for complete elimination
• Reduce the chance of reinfestation
• Safely remove or neutralize nests without putting homeowners at risk

This approach is significantly safer and more effective than DIY methods, especially for aggressive species like yellow jackets and hornets.

Protect Your Home and Yard Before the Problem Escalates

Stinging insect activity tends to increase through late summer and fall as colonies grow and food sources become more competitive. That means nests that seem “manageable” early in the season can quickly become much more aggressive and dangerous.

If you suspect stinging insects around your home, delaying treatment often makes the problem worse—not better.

The Viking Pest Control Advantage

When stinging insects take over your yard, the safest move is to bring in experienced professionals who know how to handle them correctly the first time. Viking Pest Control provides targeted stinging insect control designed to eliminate nests safely and help prevent them from returning.

Instead of risking painful stings or incomplete DIY treatments, homeowners can rely on trained technicians who understand where these insects hide, how they behave, and how to remove them effectively.

If you’re dealing with yellow jackets, hornets, wasps, or carpenter bees, Viking Pest Control can help restore your outdoor space so you can actually enjoy your yard again—without constantly watching the air or avoiding certain areas.

To learn more or schedule service, visit Viking Pest Control or call 800-618-2847.

We’ve been getting a lot of phone calls lately regarding the fall pests that are common in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. People are seeing carpenter ants inside their homes, stinging insects on their property and rats and mice in their kitchens. Customers are regularly asking us what they can do to prevent these pests from arriving in the first place; our Home Protection Plans can help you with that! But now we’d like to discuss why these pests can be a problem for your NJ, PA, MD, or DE home and why you should be concerned when they choose your home to inhabit.

Carpenter ants are known for entering weather or water damaged wood and nesting in the structural timber. They bore little holes into wood surfaces, creating galleries and nests inside the wooden beam. From here they will venture into your home to forage for food; not only will they be crawling throughout your home, but they can cause the structure of your home to become weakened. Carpenter ants along with other wood-destroying pests like termites can result in expensive repairs, so they are houseguests that need to be evicted immediately! Contact us for more information on our carpenter ant control and termite extermination for your NJ, PA, MD, or DE home.

A mouse infestation is a potential problem for homeowners for many reasons. These pests are looking to find a protected place to spend the winter. They will find any hole in the exterior of your home to enter and once inside, they will search for a safe place to build a nest. They may look for cluttered and undisturbed areas, including basements, attics and even closets. If mice can get into the walls in your home, they will chew up insulation to help make their nest, sometimes chewing through electrical wires, which can be the cause of house fires. Rodents will contaminate your food supply, spread diseases with their feces and destroy your belongings to create nests if they choose your home to spend the winter.

Stinging insects are especially active at this time of year because their populations are at their peak and you will see more of them out, foraging for food. When stinging insects like bees, yellow jackets and paper wasps build their nests on your property, along the exterior of your home, or even inside wall voids in your home, they can become a serious problem. Yellow jackets are known for being especially aggressive and have the ability to sting repeatedly. Any kind of stinging insect nest built inside your home can damage walls, insulation and can be an expensive problem to fix.

As you can see, having these pests inside your home is less than ideal! If you are looking for effective home pest control, NJ, PA, MD, and DE residents recommend Viking Pest Control. Our local certified technicians offer exceptional service to help eliminate the pest problem that is present and prevent it from occurring in the future. For more information on our Home Protection Plans, please contact Viking Pest Control today!

Call Viking at 800-618-2847 to learn more about fall pest control and extermination services, or get a fast, free quote online today!