In July, the buzz in your backyard might not be from your cookout guests. It could be from an uninvited colony of stingers setting up shop in your eaves, attic, shrubs, or in the ground.
But not all nests or wasps are created equal. Some are aggressive and dangerous, while others are non-threatening but unsightly. If you’re wondering what kind of wasp you’re dealing with, or what that strange nest actually is, this guide is for you.
Let’s decode the most common culprits in Indiana and the nests they build.
Paper Wasps
What they look like:
Paper wasps are slender with long legs that hang down while flying. Their bodies are brown or reddish with yellow markings. They are often confused with yellowjackets, but they tend to be less aggressive.
Where they nest:
Paper wasps build umbrella-shaped nests with open combs. These nests are usually found under eaves, in meter boxes, porch ceilings, or around outdoor light fixtures. The combs are exposed and look like tiny hexagons.
What to know:
Paper wasps will defend their nest if disturbed but generally keep to themselves. A typical nest holds a few dozen wasps. If left alone, they may not be a problem, but nests close to doors or play areas can pose a risk.
Bald-Faced Hornets
What they look like:
These hornets are large and black with white markings on their face and body. Despite their name, they are actually a type of yellowjacket.
Where they nest:
Bald-faced hornets build large, round, enclosed nests that hang from trees, soffits, or siding. These nests are papery and gray, and can be the size of a football or larger.
What to know:
Bald-faced hornets are extremely territorial and will aggressively defend their nests. Their colonies can contain hundreds of hornets. These nests should never be approached or removed without professional help.
Yellowjackets
What they look like:
Yellowjackets are stocky, black and yellow wasps with smooth bodies. They are fast flyers and can sting multiple times.
Where they nest:
Most yellowjacket nests are underground, often in old rodent holes or along landscaping edges. They can also build nests in walls, attics, and crawlspaces. You may not see the nest itself, but you’ll notice wasps flying in and out of a small hole in the ground or wall.
What to know:
Yellowjackets are highly aggressive and dangerous when provoked. Since their nests are hidden, they can surprise you while mowing the lawn, gardening, or letting pets outside.
Mud Daubers
What they look like:
Mud daubers are long and skinny with very narrow “waists.” They are usually black or metallic blue and fly slowly.
Where they nest:
Mud daubers build small, tube-shaped nests made of mud. These nests are often found on the sides of buildings, in attics, sheds, garages, and under eaves. They look like small clay pipes grouped together.
What to know:
Mud daubers are solitary and rarely sting. They don’t form colonies like other wasps. While they aren’t usually a threat, their nests can leave behind stains or attract other pests.
Not Sure What You’re Dealing With?
Ask yourself a few key questions:
- Is the nest open or fully enclosed?
- Can you see the hexagon combs or is the surface smooth?
- Is it hanging, attached to a structure, or hidden in the ground?
- Are there a few insects or a swarm coming and going?
If you’re still unsure, it’s best to play it safe. Misidentifying a nest can lead to stings, allergic reactions, and nests coming back if not properly treated.
Let The LadyBug Help Identify and Remove the Nest Safely
At The LadyBug Pest & Wildlife Control, we know the difference between a harmless mud dauber and a full-blown hornet colony. Our team is trained, licensed, and equipped to remove nests safely and completely. Whether you’re seeing activity on your deck, in the attic, or under your porch roof, we’ll take care of it.
Call us today at 317-601-2873 or visit our contact form to inquire about scheduling.
