Guide to Identify Wasp Nests

Wasp nest identification in Atlanta GA - Active Pest ControlIn the middle of the summer, we see a lot of stinging insect activity. Wasps in particular are seen often here in Georgia in the late summer and fall. Whether you’re used to seeing paper wasps in your backyard or yellowjackets at the park, you’re accustomed to seeing wasps here and there. But these wasps are all different, and it’s important to learn how to identify the nests they build. If you notice one of the below nests on your property, it’s important to be cautious, even if it appears abandoned. Certain types of wasps can be more aggressive than others, especially when it comes to defending their nest. To learn how to identify different wasp nests, keep reading for expert tips from Active Pest Control.

Where Are Wasp Nests Found?

Everyone thinks wasp nests are mostly in trees, but that’s not always the case. Yellowjackets favor areas near the ground, in hollow trees, under porches, and a number of other areas. Some even nest entirely underground in old burrows. Mud daubers tend to build their nests in sheltered areas, including under eaves, garages, attics, or on the sides of buildings. Paper wasp nests are often located under and within the eaves of structures, in attics and wall voids, and in other enclosed areas. Bald-faced hornets, on the other hand, like to build nests high up off the ground. This means they’re found in trees, but also on the sides of buildings.

Paper wasp, mud dauber, yellowjacket, and bald-faced hornet nest identification in Atlanta GA - Active Pest Control

4 Different Wasp Nests

It’s important to learn how to differentiate the different wasp nests your most likely to come across. Here are the main characteristics of each:

  1. Yellowjackets. Likely the most common nest you may see, yellowjacket nests are a papery material and have a single opening. The inside of a yellowjacket nest can have up to 100 tiers of cells. Yellowjackets can also build underground nests that can be enormous in size.
  2. Paper wasps. These nests famously look like upside-down umbrellas. Paper wasp nests are often open, and can get quite large in size. They are typically supported by a single stalk and consist of a paper-like material.
  3. Mud daubers. True to name, female mud daubers construct their nests out of mostly mud. The nests are small and tubular in size, often looking like organ pipes. They are typically found in cracks or crevices.
  4. Bald-faced hornets. These nests are almost always at least three feet off the ground. They are made of chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. They often grow to be the size of a football or basketball.

What to Do About Wasp Nests on Your Property

Even if you believe a wasp nest to be old or abandoned, it’s important to avoid it altogether. Lingering stinging insects may be inside. DIY nest removal is always a risk, and is especially dangerous for anyone who is allergic to stings. If you notice one of the above wasp nests forming on or near your property, always contact your local wasp removal experts at Active Pest Control.