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When anyone sees a wasp, the first thought that comes to mind is “kill it!” This is understandable because wasp stings hurt much more than bee stings, causing a rather large inflamed area on the skin. These stings are also potentially fatal to those who are allergic, and unlike bees, they can sting more than once! Before we go on a killing spree, however, consider the fact that killing wasps may be a mistake.
Understanding wasps as well as being able to recognize the type of wasp you're dealing with can help you decide whether you should take action against it. First, understand that like most insects, wasps are here for a reason. They have a purpose. They are very good at killing and controlling the population of pests which can affect farm crops without harming the farm crops themselves.
Second, there are several types of wasps, and not all are potential pests. These types are usually categorized as solitary wasps and social wasps. Solitary wasps fly alone and they don't build nests. They often lay their eggs inside their pray so there is no need for a nest. They prey on other insects, many of which are also considered pests to humans, so solitary wasps are actually quite useful. They're also more docile or are less likely to attack. Social wasps, on the other hand build nests and tend to be very territorial over their nests. They too can be beneficial in terms of killing insects, however, they become pests when their population increases or when their nests are built too close to a human home.
Before killing wasps, give yourself a few days to a week to assess the situation. If you see a wasp, don't try to swat it, you may just aggravate it and cause it to sting you. Just observe it. Is it alone? Are there other wasps in site? If you always see one lone wasp, you're likely dealing with a solitary one. In which case, it can be more beneficial to keep it alive because it means there are other pests nearby that it is feasting on.
If you see one or two wasps, on the other hand, and you see them often for several days, it could mean that you have a nest nearby. Find the location of the nest. If it is very near your home, you may have a major problem in a few short weeks, and it is probably a good idea to get rid of the nest soon. If it is relatively far, set up wasp traps near your home or in the perimeter of your property. These traps should keep most of them away from your home.
Remember that wasps have a purpose, and they aren't always pests, so killing wasps shouldn't be the knee jerk reaction to seeing one. However, if they have made their nest too close to your home or in your home and are posing a threat to your family, then take the necessary action.
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