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You’re likely going to run into stinging insects in Chicago. These pests can create immense problems because they are dangerous and destructive. Typically, these pests are members of the Hymenoptera order. They share this with ants. Although they can create issues for residents, they’re good for the environment because they help pollinate plants. Before you can deal with a stinging insect infestation, you need to know which pest you’re dealing with. Identify the species before moving forward.
Which Stinging Insect Is It?
You can identify the stinging insect species by looking at it and its nest. Use the information below to find out what you’re dealing with.
Paper Wasp
First, you might encounter paper wasps. These pests are moderately aggressive and usually don’t bother people. Don’t get too close and you’ll be okay. Their nests are smaller than others, round, and grey. Furthermore, they have a honeycomb pattern. Paper wasps build nests under overhangs and eaves. They can be found on fences too. In Chicago, there are at least two species of paper wasps. You may encounter European paper wasps and northern paper wasps. European paper wasps have black and yellow stripes and orange antennas. As for the other species, their bodies are brown with a few dark, orange areas.
Yellowjackets
Yellowjackets tend to be one of the most aggressive stinging insects in our area. They become more aggressive in the early fall because the colony gets larger. They become emboldened. Yellowjackets often build nests around attics and porches before wrapping the nest with a gray or black material like paper. These pests have yellow and black stripes.
Bald-Faced Hornets
Like yellowjackets, bald-faced hornets are incredibly aggressive. Plus, they become more aggressive in the early fall. As the colony reaches its maximum size, the pest will be very aggressive. These pests build large nests on trees, bushes, and building sides. The stinging insect has a smooth, black, and white body.
Honeybees
Honeybees are moderately aggressive but less aggressive than other stinging insects. They are often bred to make them as gentle as possible. They are raised for their honey. They return to the same nest for multiple years, so they collect honey. Doing so ensures they have enough food to survive. Their nests are made of wax and often placed on wall cavities and rock faces.
Honeybees are orange or yellow with fuzzy, brown bodies.
Carpenter Bees
Finally, Chicago is home to carpenter bees. They’re less aggressive than others, but they can still sting. They bore 3/8” holes in wood surfaces around your home. For instance, they’ll bore holes in wood fascia, wood decks, and wood siding. Once the wood is discarded, the hole is used to raise its young. Carpenter bees are like bumblebees in terms of appearance, but they’re larger. The primary species in Chicago has a black and yellow thorax.
Dangers Linked To Stinging Insects
There is no doubt that stinging insects can be dangerous, but some of them aren’t. Remember that some aren’t aggressive. In many cases, stinging insects do not sting unless they need to defend themselves. Male stinging insects cannot sting. The stinging insects will become more aggressive as their colony reaches the maximum size. It is best to stay away from colonies that have reached their peak population. If stinging insects think you’re a danger, they will sting you. You won’t be able to avoid the underground nests built by yellowjackets. Unfortunately, these pests can stink someone multiple times.
Reasons For Stinging Insects
One thing to remember is that stinging insects are coming so they can build nests on your property. If your property has good nesting conditions, they will come and build nests there.
Eliminating An Infestation Of Stinging Insects
Although you can try, it is generally best to let a professional handle the infestation for you. Doing it on your own will prove to be too dangerous. Plus, you can’t be positive that you’re going to use reliable do-it-yourself techniques. We recommend hiring a professional and staying away from DIY sprays. The problem with DIY sprays is that they’ll infuriate the pests. They’ll attempt to attack as soon as their nest has been sprayed. Wait until the sun goes down because they’ll be less aggressive then. Nevertheless, the risks are still high.
Safer Stinging Insect Treatments
We’re serious about protecting our clients. We work hard to find and use the safest treatments. Our technicians use EPA-registered products to ensure that everyone involved is going to be safe. Plus, we follow strict protocols to guarantee our client’s safety. Work with us to ensure that your loved ones are going to be protected to the fullest.
The Cost Of Our Services
We can’t tell you how much you’ll pay until we look at your situation. To determine what we’ll charge, we must learn more about the species you have, how big your home is, and the size of the nest. Once we’ve analyzed your situation, we’ll give you a bid price. Once you’ve accepted the bid price, we can begin treating your home.
When Can You Begin?
We’re always eager to help our clients. When you’re ready to begin, contact our office. We’ll contact you back within 24 to 48 hours.
Preventing Stinging Insects From Invading
Be sure to do what you can to prevent stinging insects from invading your home. One of the best ways to achieve this goal is by signing up for our home service program. It is inexpensive, cost-effective, and reliable. Once you’ve signed up, we’ll send a technician to your home three times annually. During each visit, we’re going to check your property for stinging insects. If we find pests around your home, we’re going to treat your property immediately. Don’t worry about the cost since the annual fee will cover the cost of treatment. Any treatments will be covered by the annual fee you pay. Although you can try keeping them away from your home otherwise, we believe it is best to sign up for this service. It is the best way to defend your property.
If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.
