Yellow Jackets / Vespula maculifrons, Vespula germanica, Vespula vulgaris
You know those “bees” that like your snow cone or can of soda-pop more than you do? The ones that seem to show up at every family picnic or backyard barbeque like an uninvited and very unwelcome guest? These are yellow jackets. Yellow Jackets are easily recognized by black and yellow stripes – “Steeler” bees.
When Yellow Jackets nest in trees, shrubs, under decks, or high in the eaves, their nest is very visible and easy to identify; a “football” or upside down teardrop-shaped nest constructed from gray paper. Yellow Jackets, like wasps and hornets, actually make this paper themselves by chewing on tiny slivers of wood. The young are hatched and food is stored in the nest’s center or “core” of hexagonal (or six-sided) cells.
When yellow jackets nest inside a structure (such as your home) the nest is not at all visible. You’ll see them flying in and out at some small gap, crack, or crevice on the exterior of your house. Note: Please do not seal this entrance hole shut. Read my Common Questions About Bees for more information about this.
You may even be able to hear yellow jackets inside. Listen to your wall or ceiling for a crackling, tickling, “rustling-leaves” sound. Those are yellow jackets going about the business of building their hive and slowly chewing through your plaster or drywall.
Call The Bee Hunter Today
If you have a bee problem, a hornet nest, or need wasp control in or around your home or business, contact The Bee Hunter, aka Jim Abraham, today.
The Bee Hunter specializes in bee extermination and wasp control including hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, ground bees, carpenter bees, and honey bees. He is fully licensed, bonded and insured.
If you need help identifying your bee, see our information on different types of bees.
If you have additional questions about bee removal services, please see the bee information page.
The Bee Hunter services Pittsburgh, PA and surrounding Western Pennsylvania. See our Service Area page for more information.
The Bee Hunter can help keep your family and pets safe from bee stings – call today – 412-965-2448.
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