Stinging insects can be a problem, predominantly in the spring, summer, and into the fall. Although some may occasionally be encountered at other times, wasp activity is generally greatest during the warmer months. These insects can leave painful stings if they come into contact with you or a loved one. Because of this, it’s important to contact a good Broken Arrow Exterminator if you think you have an issue with them.

Let’s talk about wasps and how they function. Wasps can broadly be described as solitary or social. Solitary wasps generally work independently and provision their own nest cells, while social wasps live in colonies with multiple individuals and brood cells. The exact nest structure varies by species. Oklahoma State University Extension provides information about common wasps and bees, their nesting behavior, and management around homes.

Many solitary hunting wasps capture prey such as spiders or other insects and use their sting to paralyze it. The female places the prey in a nest cell, lays an egg, and closes the cell. The larva that hatches consumes the provisioned prey and develops through its immature stages before emerging as an adult wasp.

Adult wasps commonly obtain carbohydrates from nectar and other sugary sources, while many species collect or hunt protein-rich prey for their developing young. Wasps can also visit flowers and transfer pollen while feeding on nectar. Because of this, some wasps contribute to pollination while many also help control other arthropods by hunting them. The U.S. Forest Service explains the role wasps can play as flower visitors, pollinators, and predators in ecosystems.

This is an important part of our ecosystem, so it’s not necessary to eliminate every wasp simply because one is present outdoors. Problems are more likely when a nest is located too close to a high-traffic area. If people are regularly coming in and out of a door with a nest nearby, or if a nest is on an eave near a children’s play area, the risk of stings may make professional control appropriate.

That’s where a good Broken Arrow Exterminator can come in. If you’re having problems with wasps, call TermMax Pest Control. We can help with wasps, bees, and other pests and determine the appropriate approach for the situation. Call us today for more information.