As the summer heat begins to fade in New Jersey, many homeowners notice that the buzzing and crawling around their homes isn’t slowing down. September may bring cooler days, but it’s actually one of the busiest times of the year for insects. From stinging wasps to sneaky stink bugs, understanding which bugs are active and how to manage them can help keep your family and property safe.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are probably the first bug people think of in late summer. These black-and-yellow wasps reach peak population in August and September, with thousands of workers searching for sugary foods, ripe fruit, and even meat. Their aggression rises as natural food sources dwindle, making backyard picnics and outdoor gatherings a risky endeavor. Nests can be hidden underground, under decks, or inside walls, which makes professional removal the safest choice.
Honey Bees and Bumblebees
While yellow jackets get all the attention, honey bees and bumblebees are still out foraging in September. These pollinators are vital to gardens and crops, and they generally only sting if provoked. Honey bees usually die after stinging, while bumblebees can sting multiple times but are rarely aggressive. Protecting these beneficial insects is important, but it’s still wise to keep an eye on hives near homes, especially if someone is allergic.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are less aggressive than yellow jackets but will defend their nests if disturbed. They build umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, porches, and outdoor furniture. These wasps can become a problem if nests are close to high-traffic areas, and their stings, while usually less painful than yellow jackets, can still be dangerous for people with allergies.
Hornets
Hornets, including bald-faced hornets, are active through September. Their nests can be large, often hidden in trees, shrubs, or building overhangs. Hornets are extremely protective of their colonies, and any disturbance can trigger multiple stings. Professional exterminators are often necessary for safe removal, especially for nests in hard-to-reach locations.
Mud Dauber Wasps
Mud daubers are the calm cousins of more aggressive wasps. They build small, mud tube nests, usually under eaves or in corners. While they rarely sting, they are still unwelcome house guests, especially when multiple wasps occupy a porch or shed. Their presence is mostly a nuisance, but it’s wise to remove nests before they accumulate.
Stink Bugs
September also marks the start of stink bug season in New Jersey. Brown marmorated stink bugs seek warm, sheltered spaces to overwinter and can invade homes in large numbers. They don’t sting or bite, but they can become a serious nuisance, leave unpleasant odors, and damage crops or gardens. Sealing cracks around windows, doors, and siding is essential for prevention.
Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees remain active into early fall. They drill holes into wood to lay eggs, which can cause structural damage over time. Males can hover aggressively near people, but they don’t sting. Female carpenter bees can sting if handled, so prevention and early nest detection are key. Painting or sealing exposed wood can discourage nesting.
Spiders
While not insects, spiders like yellow sac spiders or wolf spiders are more visible in September as they hunt for food. Most are harmless, but bites can cause minor irritation. Spiders often hide in dark corners, attics, and garages, so keeping spaces clean and clutter-free helps reduce encounters.
Keeping Your Home Safe from September Bugs
Late summer and early fall can bring a wide range of pests. Here are some steps to protect your home and family:
- Inspect and seal: Close cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, windows, doors, and eaves.
- Clean up: Remove fallen fruit, food scraps, and standing water that attract insects.
- Proper trash management: Keep lids closed and clean bins regularly.
- Plant deterrents: Mint and other herbs can help repel some stinging insects naturally.
- Professional help: For yellow jackets, hornets, and hidden nests, calling Busta Bug, a trusted NJ exterminator is the safest approach.