What are Wasps?
Wasps are insects that belong to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. They are characterized by their slender bodies with a narrow waist, typically marked with bright colors such as yellow and black. Wasps can vary in size from tiny species to larger ones, with some species growing up to several centimeters in length. There are many different species of wasps, with some of the most common types being paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets. Wasps play various ecological roles, including pollination and acting as natural pest controllers by preying on other insects. However, they are also known for their ability to sting, which can be painful and, in some cases, potentially dangerous, especially for those allergic to their venom.
Most Common wasps in NorthEast Ohio?
European hornet
European hornets originally hail from Europe and Asia. They were brought from central Europe to North America and were first sighted in the 1840s. Since then, European hornets have thrived and become firmly established in the eastern United States, including all of Pennsylvania. Their range has expanded westward, with the first sightings in Arkansas reported in 1999. Although a European hornet worker was collected in Guatemala in 2010, the species is not thought to have established itself there.
Bald Faced Hornet
Bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) can be found in Northeast Ohio, as their range extends across much of North America, including the northeastern United States. While they are not exclusive to this region, they are commonly encountered in wooded areas, suburban neighborhoods, and rural landscapes throughout Ohio. In Northeast Ohio, bald-faced hornets typically construct their nests in trees, shrubs, and occasionally on buildings or other structures.
European Paper Wasp
European paper wasps are similar in appearance to native paper wasp species but can be distinguished by their slightly larger size and distinct coloration. They have a slender body with a narrow waist and are typically brownish with yellow markings. European paper wasps are considered beneficial insects as they prey on other insects, including many garden pests.
Eastern Yellowjacket
Eastern yellowjackets are social insects that live in colonies consisting of a queen, workers, and male drones. They construct their nests in a variety of locations, including underground burrows, in wall voids, under decks, or in other sheltered areas. Their nests are typically constructed from paper-like material made from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva.
Dark Paper Wasp
Dark paper wasps are among the prevalent wasp species in Ohio. They are distinguished by their dark bodies and yellow legs. Unlike other types of wasps, they construct umbrella-shaped nests from a paper-like material. These wasps exhibit high levels of aggressiveness and territorial behavior when it comes to defending their nests. For some individuals, a sting can lead to allergic reactions that may necessitate medical intervention.
Metric Paper Wasp
In Ohio, Metric paper wasps are recognized for their aggressive behavior and tendency to sting when disturbed. It’s essential not to mistake them for the Red paper wasp in Ohio, identifiable by its predominantly red thorax and dark wings. Metric paper wasps have legs with contrasting colors of yellow, red, and black. Their nests are cone-shaped and constructed from a paper-like material. A distinguishing feature of this wasp is the swelling in the abdomen just below the thin yellow stripe.
YELLOW LEGGED MUD DAUBER WASP
In Ohio, these wasps are recognized for constructing cylindrical nests from mud, typically under the eaves of buildings or houses. Yellow-Legged Mud Dauber Wasps in Ohio primarily prey on spiders, which they bring back to their nests for their larvae to feed on. Additionally, they are occasionally observed feeding on the liquid found inside hummingbird feeders.
German Yellowjacket
The German Yellowjacket is classified as an invasive species of wasp in Ohio. These wasps have a tendency to nest in attics and within the walls of buildings in the state. Their preference for nesting in human-made structures poses a significant risk to public health. Originally introduced to the southwestern United States from Europe and Northern Africa in the 1970s, German Yellowjackets have gradually spread across the country.
Red Paper Wasp
Red Paper Wasps in Ohio are distinguished by their red-orange bodies and jet-black wings. They frequently build gray-colored nests in areas such as house eaves, sheds, and sometimes smaller spaces like outdoor grilles. While not known for extreme aggression, these wasps will sting if provoked. Initially, their nests are modest in size but expand rapidly once established.
Cicada Killer Wasp
In Ohio, Cicada Killer Wasps construct their nests underground. The entrances to these nests are approximately half an inch in diameter, allowing dead cicadas to pass through easily. Within the nest chambers, cicadas are distributed throughout. After laying their eggs in a chamber, the Cicada Killer Wasps will leave at least one cicada inside and seal the opening. This ensures there is enough food for the larvae until they pupate, a process that typically lasts about two weeks.
Great Black Digger Wasp
In Ohio, these wasps are recognizable by their strikingly large, bluish-black bodies and black wings. Great Black Digger Wasps construct nests in the ground, consisting of chambers, each designated for one egg and one paralyzed insect as food for the hatched larva. While generally not aggressive, female wasps can deliver a painful sting if provoked, whereas males lack a stinger altogether. Nests are commonly located near gardens, allowing adults to gather nectar and pollen during the day.
Four Toothed Mason Wasp
During late summer and early fall in Ohio, Four Toothed Mason Wasps are frequently encountered. While not particularly territorial and usually avoiding human contact, they will sting if they feel threatened. These black wasps are occasionally misidentified as Bald-Faced Hornets, but their distinguishing feature is the absence of white facial markings. Adults typically frequent flowers, where they consume nectar, their primary food source, and provision caterpillars to feed their larvae.
Great Golden Digger Wasp
In Ohio, Great Golden Digger Wasps are solitary insects and generally not aggressive. They are distinguished by their golden hairs on the head and thorax, coupled with a reddish-orange abdomen and legs. Adult wasps primarily feed on nectar, while their offspring are nourished with paralyzed crickets, katydids, and grasshoppers brought back to the nest by adults. Female wasps are responsible for excavating tunnels within the nest and producing more wasps.
How we can help with WASPS?
Managing ant infestations around your home doesn’t have to be a hassle. Say goodbye to DIY methods and trust the expertise of RIDD-X Pest Control. Our knowledgeable team is well-versed in the various ant species prevalent in Northeast Ohio, ensuring effective elimination strategies. We also offer solutions for cockroaches, rodents, and spiders. Take control of your pest problems today by contacting us at (216) 970-8259.
