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.

 

Somerset County recently experienced its first frost of the year, but freezing outdoor temperatures don’t necessarily mean that pest activity has come to a halt. In fact, some types of pest activity may become even more dangerous during the colder months. One common pest that remains highly active, even in colder temperatures, is the Yellow Jacket.  Yellow Jackets nesting within walls may break through into living areas seeking food and warmth, which can be surprising, to say the least.  These aggressive wasps are known for building their nests in a wide variety of places, and one of their favorite spots to set up shop is inside the warm, protected spaces within your home's walls. As the temperature drops, Yellow Jackets will continue to seek food to support their queen, and if they find that the outdoors are inhospitable, they may attempt to burrow through your home's sheetrock in search of sustenance.

In temperate regions like Somerset County NJ, Yellow Jackets can find their way into your wall voids in spring and summer, entering through several access points like small gaps and holes around the home. Two of the most common entryways are open garages and enclosed porch areas, which provide these wasps with easy access to your home’s interior. Once inside, they may begin to build their nests, often without your immediate knowledge. One of the clearest indicators of an infestation is the presence of unusual sounds coming from within your walls. If you hear scratching, scraping, or rustling noises, it’s a strong indication that Yellow Jackets are either actively building their nest or attempting to burrow through the sheetrock to access food or livable temperatures.

While it might be tempting to try and address a Yellow Jacket infestation on your own, this is rarely a good idea. Yellow Jackets are notoriously aggressive and highly territorial. When they perceive a threat to their nest, they will defend it mercilessly by stinging anyone they consider a danger. Unlike bees, which can only sting once, Yellow Jackets can sting multiple times, making them particularly dangerous. Their stings are not only painful but can also be life-threatening for individuals who are allergic to wasp venom. The challenge is that most people are unaware of their allergy until they’ve been stung, and by then, it could be too late. Even if you have been stung before without a reaction, you may not react the same way if you receive multiple stings all at once. This is why dealing with Yellow Jackets on your own can be incredibly risky. 

Another reason to avoid handling a Yellow Jacket infestation yourself is the potential misuse of wasp control products. Without the proper knowledge and experience, it can be difficult to apply these products effectively. An insufficient application may result in poor outcomes, allowing the infestation to persist or worsen. On the other hand, misapplication of certain chemicals can pose serious health risks to your family and pets. If you lack the correct personal protective equipment, these risks may be compounded. Many over-the-counter products are not as effective as professional-grade treatments, which are often only available to licensed pest control specialists. Moreover, professionals are equipped with the tools and protective gear that allow them to deal with these stinging pests safely and effectively.

If you suspect that Yellow Jackets have made their way into your home’s walls, or if you have concerns about other pest issues, it’s crucial to contact a professional pest control service. Viking Pest Control specializes in safe, efficient Yellow Jacket removal treatments and can help protect your home and family from these dangerous pests. Don’t wait until the problem escalates—call Viking Pest Control at (800) 618-2847 to schedule an inspection or treatment. Let the experts handle the job and ensure your home remains pest-free this Fall in Somerset County and beyond.

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. 

Yellow jackets are one of the most aggressive stinging insects commonly encountered during late summer and fall across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Pest control professionals regularly report increased activity during this time of year as colonies grow larger and insects begin searching for food sources near homes and businesses.

Because of their defensive behavior and ability to sting repeatedly, yellow jackets can pose a serious safety concern when they build nests close to human activity.

What Are Yellow Jackets?

Yellow jackets are a type of social wasp known for their black-and-yellow coloring and highly protective colony behavior. Unlike bees, yellow jackets are more aggressive and are capable of stinging multiple times without dying.

They are often mistaken for honeybees, but key differences include:

• A slimmer, more defined waist
• Brighter, more vivid coloration
• Increased aggression when disturbed

Yellow jackets are also less active at night, but nests remain a hazard even when activity appears reduced.

Where Yellow Jackets Build Nests

Yellow jackets commonly build nests in concealed or hard-to-see areas, including:

• Underground burrows
• Wall voids in homes or structures
• Tree stumps or decaying wood
• Dense landscaping or overgrown yard areas

Because many nests are hidden, people often discover them accidentally—frequently by stepping near or disturbing the nest entrance.

Why Yellow Jackets Are Dangerous

Yellow jackets are considered one of the more hazardous stinging insects due to several factors:

• They can sting repeatedly without losing their stinger
• They are highly defensive around their nest
• A single disturbance can trigger a coordinated swarm response
• Their stings can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals

When a yellow jacket stings, it can also release chemical signals that alert other members of the colony, increasing the likelihood of multiple stings in a short period of time.

In some cases, reactions to stings can be serious enough to require emergency medical attention.

Why DIY Yellow Jacket Nest Removal Is Risky

A common mistake homeowners make is attempting to eliminate yellow jacket nests using store-bought sprays. While this may seem like a quick solution, it often makes the situation worse.

Sprays typically only affect insects they directly contact, leaving much of the colony untouched. As a result:

• Yellow jackets may become more aggressive
• Insects inside the nest may disperse into walls or nearby structures
• Activity can increase around entry points of the home
• The risk of stings to people and pets rises significantly

Disturbing a nest without proper treatment methods can quickly turn a localized problem into a widespread infestation around your home.

What Attracts Yellow Jackets to Your Property

Several environmental factors can make a property more attractive to yellow jackets, including:

• Open trash cans or food waste
• Standing water sources
• Overgrown vegetation
• Tree stumps or decaying wood
• High concentrations of flowering plants
• Cluttered outdoor spaces

Managing these conditions can help reduce activity, but it does not eliminate an existing nest.

How to Reduce Yellow Jacket Activity

While prevention alone cannot remove established colonies, homeowners can reduce attractants by:

• Keeping garbage tightly sealed and away from the home
• Removing standing water in yard areas
• Trimming grass and overgrowth regularly
• Clearing dead trees, stumps, or decaying wood
• Reducing clutter in outdoor spaces

These steps may make your property less appealing, but nests still require professional treatment once established.

Professional Yellow Jacket Control

Because of the risks involved, yellow jacket nests are best handled by trained pest control professionals. Proper treatment requires identifying the nest location and applying methods designed to eliminate the colony safely and effectively.

At Viking Pest Control, trained technicians handle yellow jacket and other stinging insect infestations throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. With decades of experience, professional treatment helps reduce risk to homeowners while effectively removing the nest.

If you suspect yellow jacket activity near your home or business, prompt action is important to prevent the colony from expanding further.

Contact Viking Pest Control

If you have noticed increased yellow jacket activity or suspect a nest on your property, contact Viking Pest Control for professional inspection and treatment.

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

The kids are going back to school. The days are growing gradually shorter. Nighttime temperatures are turning cool. Fall is coming and the final days of summer are upon us.  Families throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland are making burgers and firing up the grill, determined to enjoy a few more barbecues while they still can. Unfortunately, your local pest control experts at Viking Pest Control warn, so are yellowjackets.

Yellowjacket wasps are the bane of late August and early September barbecues and picnics. About 1/2 inch long with black and yellow markings, yellowjackets can be distinguished from bees that have similar coloration by their nipped-in “wasp waist” and smooth, hairless bodies. The most aggressive stinging insect in NJ, PA, MD, and DE, yellowjackets live in large social colonies that can number in the thousands. Most of the life-threatening stinging attacks in the U.S. are caused by attacking yellowjackets. Like other wasps, yellowjackets have straight stingers and can sting their prey multiple times. When disturbed, they release pheromones that incite their hive mates to join the attack. Swarms have been known to follow and continue attacking their prey over long distances.

How Can I avoid Being Stung By Yellowjackets?

Your local pest control professionals at Viking Pest Control warn that yellowjackets have two habits that bring them into frequent contact with humans and increase the danger of being stung:

• These wasps frequently build their nests underground in abandoned animal burrows in areas frequented by people. Easily disturbed, yellowjackets can be provoked to attack by the sound of a lawn mower or a running child inadvertently stepping on a nest entrance.
• While yellowjackets feed primarily on other insects and spiders, they are also attracted to sugars and are frequently seen buzzing around trash cans at picnic sites. Their aggressive nature makes yellowjackets a serious problem at late summer barbecues and picnics. Dangerous stings have occurred when these wasps crawl into soda cans.

Don’t let yellowjackets ruin your final summer barbecues; contact your local pest control professionals at Viking Pest Control for safe elimination of these dangerous pests.

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