One of the things that people look for when purchasing a home or business center in Merrimac, MA is a wide yard. With a vast stretch of land are many possibilities. You could host large family gatherings, like a barbecue or reunion. Some would have friends over for a field day, picnic, or party. Entrepreneurs can have events or outdoor seating to entice customers and investors. Flying pests can stifle all of that though.
Buzzing insects like bald-faced hornets and other wasps live in natural settings. This makes it beyond challenging to keep them away and manage their intrusions. Their presence can be discouraging to visitors, as the bugs can bite or sting and cause major problems. With a little reading, you can learn more about how local bald-faced hornets operate. Then, you’ll have information on how to prevent them and get assistance from Freedom Pest Control.
How Do Bald-faced Hornets Look And Behave? What Are the Dangers?
Bald-faced hornets are quite prevalent in the area. The first thing to know about them is that they’re classified as wasps. They have more similarities to yellow jackets and paper wasps; thus, not being a true hornet. Concerning their appearance, they have black bodies adorned with white markings along the face. Being about 0.75 of an inch long, they are fairly sizable in comparison to related bugs.
The colonies of bald-faced hornets of course begin with the queens and the laid eggs. When it gets cool outside, they’ll hunt for a comfortable place to overwinter. Usually, this spot will also be ideal for nest formation. Commonly, thick shrubbery and the hollow cavities of trees will suffice but roof eaves and gaps, and other sheltered zones will as well. The more covered pockets you have on your property, the more likely it is you’ll see these pests. This is particularly true if your domicile or establishment is in proximity to lush vegetation.
Once their peak season hits, bald-faced hornets get busy. During the day, they’ll build rounded aerial cocoons that are grayish and very enclosed. It can be as big as a basketball and up to 700 members can be inside. The material will be dense and paper-like. To satisfy their hunger and gain sustenance, bald-faced hornets seek out nectar, insects, carrion, and sweet liquids.
Other crucial facts about wasps in general are:
- Their development cycle has four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
- The environment is supported by their pollination and feeding practices.
- Their stings will cause pain, followed by skin inflammation and perhaps an allergic reaction.
- Since they can strike several times, severe bodily responses may occur and require medical attention. Bald-faced hornets attack in masses and can release great amounts of venom.
Is There a Way to Prevent Bald-Faced Hornets?
You can make your land less appealing to bald-faced hornets if you sharpen your exterior care practices by:
- Mowing the lawn and trimming the greenery on a routine basis. Plug ground holes and discard organic yard debris.
- Trying not to overplant flowers.
- Planting species like citronella and eucalyptus in gardens. They have repellent properties.
- Distancing greenery from your property by at least two feet.
- Flushing out gutters and vents regularly.
- Using secure containers for garbage storage.
- Making sure porches and roof eaves stay neat.
- Not leaving food on patios and decks.
- Contacting Freedom Pest Control if you have critters that bald-faced hornets feed on.
How Will Freedom Pest Control Handle Bald-Faced Hornets?
Don’t put yourself in harm’s way by touching a cocoon or directly spraying a bald-faced hornet with retail insecticide. Lean on us at Freedom Pest Control instead. Our experienced technicians will use safe, but potent nest and powder treatments to eliminate larvae and colonies. It’s fast-acting and affordable. Call us now and request a free home inspection!