As summer turns into late August and September in New Jersey, many homeowners notice an unwelcome guest buzzing around their yards: yellow jackets. These aggressive wasps seem to appear out of nowhere, but they are just entering the height of their season. Understanding why they’re so active now—and how to deal with them—can save you from painful stings and protect your family.
Late Summer: Prime Time for Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are social insects, and their colonies are at their largest in late summer. Thousands of worker wasps are out foraging, looking for sugary drinks, ripe fruit, and even meats. With natural food sources running low, they become more aggressive, and your backyard barbecue or picnic can quickly turn into a risky encounter.
Why They Become Aggressive
Two main factors make yellow jackets more dangerous this time of year. First, colonies are crowded, and thousands of wasps compete for limited food. This makes them bold and defensive. Second, as the larvae feeding slows, adult wasps crave sugars, making your soda, fruit, or open trash can irresistible.
Common Nesting Spots
Yellow jackets often build nests underground in abandoned rodent burrows, under decks, or in patios. They can also hide inside walls, attics, or eaves. Many homeowners don’t even realize there’s a nest nearby until they accidentally disturb it.
Risks for Homeowners
Yellow jackets sting multiple times, unlike honey bees. This means one wasp can cause several stings in a single encounter. People who are allergic can face serious reactions, and even a single sting can be dangerous for children or the elderly. Hidden nests also pose a risk—mowing the lawn or raking leaves near a nest can provoke a swarm.
Professional Extermination: Safety First
DIY sprays and traps might seem like a solution, but they carry risks. Improper use can push wasps deeper into walls or provoke attacks. A professional exterminator has the right tools and experience to safely remove nests and prevent new ones from forming. Call Busta Bug in New Jersey specializes in yellow jacket removal, keeping your home and family safe without risking stings.
Prevention Tips
- Secure food and drinks: Keep trash cans closed and cover outdoor foods.
- Eliminate attractants: Clean up fallen fruit and spills promptly.
- Seal entry points: Close gaps in walls, eaves, and attics where nests could form.
- Use natural deterrents: Plant mint or other repellents near outdoor seating.
Late summer in New Jersey means yellow jackets are at their peak. Avoid unnecessary stings and protect your family by knowing the signs and calling a professional. With the right precautions and expert help, your backyard can remain safe and enjoyable.