Yellowjackets seldom sting when they are foraging for food, unless they feel threatened. They are however, likely to attack when their nests are disturbed by a direct blow or by vibrations that are detected by the wasps inside. Mowing the lawn near an underground nest, construction work near a nest in a wall void, or even walking near a nest can provoke an attack by one or more yellowjackets.

Yellow jackets can be a problem in May or June, but they are most noticeable and annoying later in summer. They can be prevented by sealing holes or cracks in foundations, walls, roofs, and eaves to prevent entry. Fill in any holes dug by rodents as they appear. Yellowjackets also scavenge for meat and sweet foods and drinks in outdoor garbage and recycling bins. Clean and rinse recyclables before storing them. Keep garbage cans clean and tightly covered, or seal all food in plastic garbage bags.

Yellowjackets can be controlled by using non-toxic traps. The traps incorporate a unique pheromone attractant that is not harmful to any other insects. We recommend Rescue Yellowjacket Traps which come in both re-usable and disposable models. They are inexpensive, and one can place a number of them around the periphery of the yard or picnic area to lure the yellowjackets away from your activities and food. It helps to set the traps out a few hours before entertaining so the insects will change their foraging pattern.

If you find a nest, the best method for destroying the pests is to use a long-distance shooting aerosol spray such as Bonide Hornet and Wasp Killer. It is best to spray traps at dusk or early morning when activity is at its lowest. Be sure and stand as far back as the spray will allow and thoroughly drench the entry to the nest. Allow the nest to remain undisturbed for a few days so that all of the insects in the nest are destroyed. Then either dig up and/or remove the nest and dispose in the garbage.

Written by:
Matt Lepow, Owner, CCNPro, B.S. Ornamental Horticulture