Do you remember the first time a pipe leaked in your home? How about the first time a window was broken? As a homeowner, you signed up for these inconveniences because you knew that the benefits of having a place to call your own outweighed the upkeep required to keep it feeling like home. This, however, doesn’t make facing trouble any less difficult. Today we will be talking about one problem many homeowners face, which is a little extra painful, and that, of course, is dealing with yellowjackets in Ventura County. To help you better understand these stinger-wielding nuisances and how to stop them, we have just the guide for you.
What Are Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets are aptly named for the black and yellow pattern branded around their abdomens. Like other stinging insects, yellowjackets possess the ability to fly and are equipped with stingers filled with venom. One thing that is important to know about yellowjackets is that they are more aggressive than most other stinging insects. It is not uncommon for them to go out of their way to sting someone for just walking too close to their nest.
Depending on the species of yellowjacket nests can be found in both underground holes, or up high in aerial sites. If your property is having trouble with groud pests such as gophers, moles, or voles who are digging holes everywhere, a yellowjacket infestation will be more likely to occur. Trust us when we tell you stepping on an underground yellowjackets nest is worse than spotting one in a tree.
Benefits And Problems Of Yellowjackets
Despite their aggression, yellowjackets can be quite beneficial. Like honey bees, yellowjackets spread pollen as they feed on the flowering buds of plants. This cross-pollination is crucial for healthy plant growth and greatly benefits the environment. This benefit, however, does not outweigh the problems they can cause when around properties. If you have ever been stung by a yellowjacket we don’t have to explain how painful dealing with them can be. For some individuals with allergies related to venom, being stung by a yellowjacket can be potentially life-threatening. Of course, a byproduct of this threat is that your yard becomes a place of fear and not the extension of your living space it is supposed to be.
How To Make Your Property Less Appealing To Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets are drawn to properties by a number of factors. Sometimes it’s flowers, other times a convenient hole to build their nests inside. To deter yellowjackets from building their home around your yard, here are some prevention tips our experts recommend.
- Keep your grass cut short and your landscaping well maintained.
- Fill in holes around your property.
- Clean up all food and drinks after outdoor gatherings.
- When eating or drinking outdoors, keep unattended food or beverages covered.
- Pick up fruit from your yard that has dropped from trees.
- Consider removing flowers and other flower budding plants.
Keep in mind that even if your own property is free of yellowjacket attractants, properties close by might still invite them to your area, and your yard may still be chosen as a nesting location. Fortunately, there is one simple and reliable solution if yellowjackets decide to settle in nearby.
The Only Sure Way To Remove Yellowjackets From Your Property
Preventing yellowjackets can be difficult, but removing them is a whole different ball game. To ensure your safety, we offer reliable and effective yellowjacket removal services here at Ventura County Pest Control. Our technicians have the tools and safety equipment needed to quickly and safely get rid of any stinging pest threats keeping you from enjoying your yard.
Reach out to our dedicated team today to schedule a free inspection for your home and property, or for any questions about our pest control services.
