Wasps

WASP IDENTIFICATION

Many kinds of wasps, including yellow jackets and hornets, exist in the United States. Different species vary significantly in appearance, but the worst troublemakers for homeowners look very similar.

Frequently mistaken for honeybees, these stinging wasps have bright yellow-and-black bodies that measure from 3/8 to 5/8 inch long. Unlike fuzzy honeybee bodies, wasp bodies are glossy and nearly hairless. Depending on the species, their body markings include spots, triangles and irregular bands of yellow or black.

SIGNS OF WASPS

Stinging wasps are social insects that live together in large colonies. Their papery nests appear in trees, along roof lines, tucked into door or window corners — wherever they want to build. They often seek out spots close to where humans entertain outdoors, and then sweep in to steal food and drink.

Aggressive behavior — and stings to people and pets — are common with these flying pests. Unlike honeybees, which can only sting once, yellow jackets and other wasps can sting again and again. Reactions to their stings can be severe.

HOW TO CONTROL WASPS

Treat wasps during their least active times to limit your likelihood of stings. Wasps move more slowly in early morning and late evening hours, so time treatments accordingly. Amdro® brand products can help you kill wasps and protect your family from their stings:

• Amdro Quick Kill® Outdoor Insect Killer Ready to Spray works in minutes to kill wasps and keeps protecting against these pests for up to three months. Just attach the container to a regular garden hose and the concentrated liquid mixes automatically. Treat lawn and plant surfaces and home foundations up to a height of 3 feet.
• Amdro Quick Kill Outdoor Insect Killer Concentrate, with a convenient measuring cap, kills existing wasps by contact and protects against wasp newcomers for up to three months. Dilute the product according to label instructions, then apply with a brush or a standard lawn and garden sprayer.
• Amdro Quick Kill Mosquito Fogger sprays up to 15 feet to kill wasps, including yellow jackets, by contact. Perfect for decks, patios and outdoor entertainment areas, this product also controls mosquitoes, flies and gnats.

WASP CONTROL TIPS

If you suspect a large wasp colony inside a wall cavity or in a nest outdoors, consider contacting a pest professional for help. Wasp colonies can number in the tens of thousands and be very aggressive when threatened.

+ Brand name does not refer to product efficacy.

Always read product labels and follow the instructions carefully.
Amdro and Amdro Quick Kill are registered trademarks of Central Garden & Pet Company.