Stinging insects like wasps, hornets, and bees send more than half-a-million people to the emergency room every year. So, when are stinging pests active? These insects are particularly active during the second half of summer when the colonies search for food for their queens during the winter. The temperature drops just enough to cause these insects to go into hibernation. Some of them are even hibernating in your home, inside the attic. During this time, they start looking for places to build nests for their queens to lay eggs. Your home and workspace are perfect for these insects as it is safe from the predators and the harsh environment. Not only bees and wasps, other stinging insects like fire ants, scorpions, etc. all of them seek protection during this time of the year.
If there is a stinging insect nest in your property or inside your home, immediately contact a professional pest control service. They can inspect your home, identify the type of stinging pest invading your house, and recommend the right course of pest control treatment.
In this post, we will discuss everything you need to know about stinging pests.
What qualifies an insect as a stinging insect?
Insects of the arthropod species that carry venom and have stingers are usually known as stinging insects. They use venom and the stingers for hunting down prey and to keep them safe from potential threats. The most common stinging insects include hornets, wasps, and bees. However, there are more than just these insects. Scorpions, ants, and the larvae of certain moths, all can sting and inject venom.
Thus, it isn’t just flying insects that can sting. There are plenty of other insect species that can’t fly but can definitely sting. Scorpions, for example, have stingers on their tails that they use them to defend themselves or kill/paralyze their prey. Ants (some species), on the other hand, can inject venom to protect themselves from potential threats.
Where do these insects build their nests?
Some species of hornets and wasps chew substances into pulp to build their hives or nests, by pools, beneath porches, or under caves. The attic is another place where they can build their nests. Ants build their nests underground, whereas scorpions hide under warm and moist areas like dried leaves, woodpiles, and under rocks.
While these insects play a vital role of pollinators, they do pose a significant health concern for families across the nation.
Here are some tips for preventing stinging insects nesting in your home
· Keep trashcans sealed and covered
· Eliminate sources of moisture like standing water, etc. in or around the house
· Keep food covered until ready to eat
· Avoid wearing sweet-smelling colognes or perfumes, open-toe shoes, and loose-fitting, floral prints, or dark color garments
· If approached by a stinging insect, avoid swinging or swaying, as it may provoke an attack
If you find a nest inside your house or in the property, hire a trained pest professional. They can destroy the hives and nests around the home without harming the insects.
