Residential Wasp
Control Services

Wasp Control FAQs

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  What are wasps?

  “Wasp” is the broad term for a wide variety of insect species related to – but separate from – ants and bees. There are many types of wasp in the Pacific Northwest – such as paper wasps, mud daubers, and yellow jackets – and they all sting. Some are more aggressive than others, but all can pose a real problem to humans, especially when wasps try to set up colonies in residential homes and yards. The most common wasps encountered in the Pacific Northwest are paper wasps and yellow jackets, which bear a number of similarities. Both are likely to sting if encroached upon or bothered in any way, and the stings can be numerous.

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  What’s the difference between a wasp, a yellow jacket, and a hornet?

  Though they are all types of what are considered “wasps,” there are key differences between paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets.
  Paper wasps have much more slender bodies than yellow jackets, hornets, or bees. Their antennae have orange tips, and their slender, long legs dangle freely when the wasp is in flight. Paper wasps construct paper nests, as their name suggests, from wood pulp or other plant fiber materials. The nests are grayish, bulbous, and made of a hexagonal cell structure like that of honeycomb. Paper wasps start a new colony every year, and only the queen lives through the winter. They most often nest under eaves, barbecue lids, and the edges of roofing. They can be unpredictable and can sting even when unprovoked.
  Yellow jackets, funny enough, are known in most of the world simply as “the common wasp.” Their bodies are shorter and thicker than paper wasps, and their antennae are fully black. They have shorter legs than paper wasps, and fold these legs under their bodies during flight. Yellow jackets also build papery hives, but these nests can be hard to spot, as they are frequently located underground or within hollow structures (like dead trees or spaces between walls). These nests are much larger than paper wasp nests, and are capable of containing thousands of yellow jackets. Additionally, yellow jackets are much more aggressive than paper wasps.
  The largest and most aggressive type of social wasp are called hornets – an insect greatly feared and reviled. Hornets often have the same black abdominal stripes as paper wasps and yellow jackets, however, hornets generally have a reddish-brown coloration (as opposed to yellow). More information on these specific devils can be found on our Hornets Page.
  Due to their similar colors and stripes, bees are frequently mistaken for wasps, though most bees are not aggressive unless provoked. Bees are also incredibly beneficial to humans and the environment, and are treated with safe relocation techniques where able.
  If you need help identifying a wasp, yellow jacket, hornet, bee, or other insect, don’t hesitate to give our technicians a call!

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  How do I know if I have a wasp infestation?

  High wasp activity is the greatest indicator of a wasp infestation. Workers will be present on a property even if their nests remain hidden. These nests are often built in trees, under the eaves of roofs, in the ground, in crevices under outdoor structures, on walls, or within hollow sections of buildings. It is not advisable to try eliminating a nest on your own and without the aid of protective equipment, as the risk of being stung is high. Nests should not be approached or disturbed without assistance from a pest control professional.

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  How serious are wasps?

  Common wasps and yellow jackets are often not quite as dangerous as hornets, due to their less potent venom and (somewhat) lower levels of aggression. However, wasps and yellow jackets still pack powerful stings that can be deadly to anyone with wasp venom allergies. Worker wasps generally won’t go out of their way to give you a sting, but they are highly territorial and protective of their nests, spurring attacks against anyone that comes close or disturbs their activities. Wasps will not die when stinging (unlike honey bees) and are capable of attacking until they deplete their large stores of venom. Additionally, social wasps utilize pheromones to mark threats and to incite whole colonies to attack individual people or animals. For these reasons, removal of wasp infestations can be very dangerous, and are best left to the trained professionals. That’s where Bug Zapper comes in. Our expert pest control technicians utilize a proven extermination system that eliminates wasps within mere minutes. Our wasp control technicians use commercial repellent products, specifically designed for professional use, that not only kill wasps but also prevent their return. We completely eradicate all colonies and their nests (below ground, above ground, and even on second story locations) to ensure reinfestation doesn’t occur, and every service we offer – regardless of wasp type or infestation size – is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give us a call today, and watch your wasps disappear!

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  What types of training do your technicians go through?

  Bug Zapper is always committed to providing you with the best in pest control and removal services. All of our experienced technicians are fully licensed and certified in Oregon, in addition to undergoing advanced training though our rigorous internal apprenticeship program. All of our pest service technicians complete state testing for laws and safety, including IIHS General, IIHS Structural, and Agricultural Vertebrate tests before going through a month-long apprenticeship field training program. Our staff also regularly completes ongoing advanced training and attends industry-based seminars to stay current with the newest and best methods in pest control. We also have the honor of having an Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) on our staff – one of only 12 currently operating in the state of Oregon.

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  Do you have same day service?

  All-around excellent customer care starts with rapid response times and friendly service appointments. Bug Zapper prioritizes your needs and proudly offers same day appointments whenever we’re able. An expert pest service professional can be on-site in most cases within 24-48 hrs. Call our office and we will gladly work to best accommodate your schedule and time.