Summer is filled with many buzzing bugs, and wasps are no exception. The activity level of these stinging insects changes throughout bug season. Knowing when and why these stinging insects are more active can help you avoid a run-in with them. Check out when wasps are most likely to stop by your yard and how to prevent their arrival.
Wasps in Spring & Summer
Queen wasps emerge in spring and begin building their new nest and colony. As spring progresses, workers will start leaving the nest in search of food to feed the larvae. By the time summer is in full swing, these stinging insects will be very active. You are likely to see many wasps flying around outside of the nest.
Wasps in Late Summer & Fall
In late summer, wasp sightings will increase when the nest reaches its peak population. One colony can contain hundreds to thousands of wasps. The growth in population and increase in activity will make it more likely that you will run into these pests. This activity will continue in fall as the wasps start preparing for winter.
Why Are Wasps More Active in Fall?
Wasps are active throughout spring and summer, but their activity levels increase in fall. Several factors contribute to the rise in wasp activity. Check out why wasps are more active in fall.
Maximum Capacity
The rise in fall wasp activity is connected to a wasp’s life cycle. Queen wasps emerge when temperatures rise in spring. They begin laying eggs and preparing for their colony. Throughout the summer, the queen’s job is to lay and fertilize eggs, leading to the growth of the colony. By the time fall arrives, colony numbers are at their highest. The growth in population is why you are likely to see these bugs in your yard more frequently.
Searching for Warmth
Though wasp colonies live in nests during warmer months, queen wasps don’t overwinter in the nest. Instead, they find other locations that provide warmth and shelter. Unfortunately, your home happens to be the perfect cozy spot. Queen wasps often choose attics, sheds, or wall voids because they are protected. Their search for warmth and a hiding spot will lead to an increase in activity. If they choose to stay in your home, there’s a good chance you’ll see them when they emerge in spring.
Looking for Food
As summer turns to fall, wasps start losing access to their food sources and have to begin looking for something else to eat. During fall, wasps feed on sugar and carbohydrates. Your sugary drinks and picnic treats become one of their only food sources, which means they are more likely to hang out in your yard. Their search for food can cause an increase in wasp sightings around your home and yard.
Tips to Prevent a Wasp Infestation
Wasps may enjoy hanging out in your space, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them. Check out a few tips to help prevent a wasp infestation.
- To avoid attracting wasps, you will want to remove potential food sources. When eating outside, keep your food and drinks covered. Clean up crumbs and sticky residues.
- Make sure trash cans are tightly sealed to prevent attracting pests.
- Outdoor fans can limit wasp sightings because the breeze makes it more difficult for them to fly.
- Many pests, including wasps, are attracted to moisture. Minimizing excess water in your yard can help to deter them.
- Trimming your plants and vegetation can help to reduce potential nesting spots.
- The best way to keep wasps from entering your home is to ensure that there are no entry points. Check the exterior and interior of your house for openings and seal any holes you find.
If you know when wasps are most active, you can take steps to avoid a run-in with them. Though they’re active in spring and summer, you’re likely to see an increase in their activity in fall. Pest-proofing your space can help to keep these stinging insects from settling down in your yard. If you’re dealing with a wasp problem, our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Wasp & Hornet Killer can help!