Wasp and Bee Control and Treatment in South Florida
South Florida is famous around the world for its sunny and warm climate, which continues to attract visitors and new residents. Unfortunately, the people-pleasing climate is also popular with many insect species, some of which are potentially destructive and dangerous. Wasps and bees qualify on both counts:
- Many species of bees and wasps, such as honey bees, paper wasps, and yellow jackets, build nests inside walls and attics. This can lead to structural damage.
- WebMD estimates that about 2 million people in the U.S. are allergic to the venom produced by stinging bugs such as wasps and bees. A single sting can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction in the worst cases.
- Aside from allergic reactions, a bee or wasp sting is painful and can cause extensive swelling beyond the sting site that may last for 5 to 10 days.
Although bees and wasps play vital roles in agriculture and in keeping the local flora healthy, problems can occur when these insects nest too close to human activity. Aside from being a nuisance to most and potentially deadly to others, their nests can be very unsightly if built on the side of your house. Lastly, there’s the “ick” factor—some people are simply repelled by these insects.
The wasp and bee control services available from Nozzle Nolen protect your residence using the safest and most effective bee and wasp extermination methods in the industry. Our 365 Complete Protection Plan provides year-round protection from wasps, bees, and a range of other pests.
Bee and Wasp Control Services Begins With Identification
Many bees and wasps make their home in South Florida and contribute to our area’s natural beauty. It’s only when they nest in areas that cause them to conflict with human activity that steps have to be taken to remove them. These are the most common types of wasps and bees in South Florida:
Honey bees are about a half-inch long and appear primarily in the spring and summer. They sometimes nest in attics and wall voids. Unlike wasps, they sting only once, but their sting is still painful and dangerous to people who are allergic to bee stings.
Africanized honey bees are less common in South Florida. They closely resemble other kinds of honey bees but are more aggressive. They sting in large numbers, which makes them more dangerous.
Paper wasps are larger than honey bees, measuring between five-eighths inch and one inch long. They are dark brown with yellow stripes and are less aggressive than bees and other wasps but will still sting and act aggressively when defending their territory. Their nests are paper-like and created from chewed wood material.
Yellowjackets are similar to paper wasps in appearance but fold their wings lengthwise rather than flat. They are aggressive but typically attack only when provoked. They build nests underground in rodent burrows and in woodpiles, walls, and attics.
Bald-faced hornets are an inch to an inch-and-a-half long and differ from yellow jackets in their fierceness, which makes them more belligerent and unpredictable than yellow jackets. They build nests of paper that hang from trees and buildings.
One reason to rely on a professional wasp and bee control service is the expertise that is required to remove the threat these insects pose safely, quickly, and completely. For example, honey bees are a protected species, so they can’t be prevented from pollinating flowers and plants on your property. However, if the bees have built a nest on your home, it is possible to have a certified pest control specialist eradicate the nuisance colony.
Treatments for Bee and Wasp Control
The first step in removing the threat posed by wasps and bees is an assessment of the wasp and bee activity on your property. Nests can be found inside chimneys, vents, basements, and outside under gutters and within cracks in wood and siding. Nests can be located by following a bee or wasp as it flies to and from the nest.
Safely removing the nest is best left to the professionals as it requires protective clothing and other gear, as well as knowledge of how to apply insecticides. After removing the bees, it is important to continue to monitor the area to ensure they don’t return.
The next step in the process is preventing wasps and bees from building their nests near your property. You can do so by sealing vents, torn screens, cracks around window and door frames, and other entry points. Keep any protein-rich food sources out of the reach of bees and wasps, such as pet food, open garbage cans, or uncovered compost.
Sealing your house and creating a barrier between you and these potentially harmful pests is essential in keeping you and your family comfortable and safe. This is included in Nozzle Nolen’s pest exclusion process.
Getting Started With Nozzle Nolen
Bees and wasps are a valuable asset to South Florida’s natural beauty. They are good neighbors—until they get too close. To make sure you and your flying insect neighbors stay on good terms, contact the experts at Nozzle Nolen.
Nozzle Nolen has been serving South Florida residents with expert pest control services for over seven decades. So, if you need professional bee and wasp control services, give us a call at 800.226.6536 or Contact Us. We look forward to serving you.
