Yellow Jackets and Bees come out of hibernation at the end of spring and slowly build their hives and nests through the summer months. When fall arrives, their populations have usually maxed out, and food resources in the area are diminished, which means there are more stinging insects flying around your house. This is also the time when new queens search for a place to overwinter. So, it is important to be aware of your surroundings if you are relaxing on the deck, balcony, or patio, this fall.
The best defense is a good offense.
Chances are you're going to see a yellow jacket or a bee this fall, but the more stinging insects you have flying around your house, the more chance you have of being stung. That makes sense, right? That is why it is important to be proactive. Have a professional sniff out, and eradicate nests and hives around your property. These can be anywhere. You can find them in tree holes, hanging from branches, in root holes, in a rotted pocket on the side of your house, in eaves, and in shaded areas. Yellow jackets are especially fond of building nests in man-made structures. That is why yellow jackets account for the highest number of stings in the United States.
Whether you choose to get a professional to get rid of those nests or take your chances, here are some tips you can follow to improve your odds of avoiding a painful welt this fall.
- Don't smell like a flower. If you smell sweet, yellow jackets and bees will get curious.
- Don't look like a flower. If you wear bright clothing, you could get an unwanted visitor clinging to you.
- Check your drink before you bring it to your lips, especially if there is sugar in it.
- If you see a yellow jacket, slowly move out of range. Do not wave your arm at it; yellow jackets are easily provoked.
- Inspect your yard for holes dug by mammals. These holes are attractive to yellow jackets; they sometimes build their nest in them. Making this check will save you from being stung while mowing.
- Be careful to check your newspaper, magazine, or book, before you pick it up.
- Make sure all your screens are in good working order, and examine the lower two corners for any gaps. Bees and yellow jackets can squeeze past the screen, and enter the home when you open the window. A little tape will cover those holes.
- Check your weather stripping and door sweeps.
- Contact a professional for more exclusion methods, and advice on keeping all fall bugs out of your house.