Wasps are a common sight in Georgia, particularly during the warmer months. While these insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling other pests and pollinating plants, their presence around homes can raise safety concerns. From their ability to sting repeatedly to their often-hidden nests, wasps can quickly become a nuisance or even a danger. This guide will help you identify the most common wasps in Georgia, understand their behaviors and risks, and learn how to prevent or address infestations safely.
Wasps are ubiquitous in the state of Georgia, with over 100 species calling the Peach State home. While wasps have a bad reputation for their painful stings, most are not aggressive unless provoked. Understanding the most common wasps in Georgia can help residents identify friend from foe.
Yellowjackets
The two most common wasps in Georgia are yellowjackets – the eastern yellowjacket and the southern yellowjacket
Yellowjackets have the typical black and yellow striped appearance, with a smooth stinger at the tip of the abdomen. They build papery nests and live in colonies with one queen.
Eastern yellowjackets (Vespula maculifrons) are the most common Georgia wasp They nest in the ground or in wall voids, Eastern yellowjackets are scavengers and will aggressively defend their nest Their painful sting is a hazard,
Southern yellowjackets (Vespula squamosa) prefer to build aerial nests in trees, shrubs, or under eaves. They are also aggressive but less abundant than eastern yellowjackets.
Hornets
Hornets are larger cousins to yellowjackets. Two hornet species are prevalent in Georgia:
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Bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) – Mostly black with white markings Aerial nesters Deliver a potent sting but rarely aggressive unless the nest is disturbed,
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European hornets (Vespa crabro) – Baseball-sized hornets with yellow stripes on the abdomen. Less aggressive than yellowjackets but have a painful sting. Often nest in tree hollows. An invasive species.
Mud Daubers
Mud daubers build nests from mud, using their long legs to mold the material. Common species in Georgia include:
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Black and yellow mud dauber (Sceliphron caementarium) – Most common mud dauber. Yellow and black striped abdomen with smoky wings. Preys on spiders.
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Blue mud dauber (Chalybion californicum) – Metallic blue body. Constructs mud nests in shelters. Also eats black widow spiders.
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Organ pipe mud dauber (Trypoxylon politum) – Black with yellow markings. Known for long, organ pipe-like nests in sheltered areas.
Mud daubers rarely sting and help control spider populations.
Paper Wasps
There are around 20 paper wasp species in Georgia. They build open comb nests using chewed plant fibers. Common paper wasps include:
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Red paper wasp (Polistes carolina) – Reddish-brown body. Nest under eaves and ledges.
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Yellow paper wasp (Polistes exclamans) – Yellow with brown markings. Form large nests in trees and shrubs.
Most paper wasps are mild-mannered but can sting in self-defense if the nest is disturbed.
Digger Wasps
As the name suggests, digger wasps burrow into the soil. Look for these ground-nesting species:
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Cicada killer wasp (Sphecius speciosus) – Large, up to 2 inches long. Black with yellow stripes. Paralyze cicadas and drag them into their burrows. Males aggressive but can’t sting.
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Great golden digger wasp (Sphex ichneumoneus) – Iridescent blue-black body. Preys on katydids, crickets and grasshoppers.
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Sand wasp (Bembix americana) – Metallic green color. Makes burrows around patios and sidewalks. Eats flies and butterflies.
Digger wasps help control garden pests. Females can sting but are docile.
Parasitoid Wasps
Tiny parasitoid wasps lay their eggs on or inside host insects. The larvae eats the host. Examples in Georgia include:
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Braconid wasps – Very small wasps that parasitize caterpillars. Help control pest moths.
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Ichneumon wasps – Attack beetle larvae, bees and spiders. Long ovipositor to reach host.
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Chalcid wasps – Broad group with over 1,500 species. Parasitize eggs and larvae of many insects.
Parasitoids don’t defend nests and rarely sting humans. They are an important biological control.
How to Avoid Wasps
Follow these tips to avoid wasps when spending time outdoors in Georgia:
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Wear shoes outdoors as ground-nesting wasps may sting if stepped on.
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Check areas before mowing or trimming to avoid disturbing nests.
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Avoid swatting at wasps, which may provoke an attack.
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Keep food and drinks covered outdoors.
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Seal holes and cavities in structures where wasps can enter and build nests.
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Call a pest control professional to remove nests around the home. Attempt removal yourself only with proper protective gear.
When to Seek Medical Care for a Wasp Sting
While painful, most wasp stings can be treated at home:
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Wash the sting area with soap and water. Apply a cold pack to relieve swelling.
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Take an oral antihistamine containing diphenhydramine to reduce itching and swelling.
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Monitor for signs of severe reaction, including hives, wheezing, and swelling of the face or throat. Seek emergency care if these develop.
Multiple stings, stings inside the mouth or throat, stings in infants, and stings in those allergic to insect venom also warrant medical evaluation.
Understanding the main species of Georgia wasps can prevent unpleasant encounters. Avoid nesting areas, remain calm around foraging wasps, and call pest control for help removing problem nests. Taking simple precautions allows us to co-exist with these misunderstood insects that are vital to our ecosystem.
Why Should I Try Pest Control?
While DIY approaches might seem appealing, professional pest control offers several advantages:
- Safety: Professionals are equipped to handle wasp nests safely, minimizing the risk of stings and allergic reactions.
- Thoroughness: Experts can identify hidden nests and address infestations comprehensively.
- Long-Term Prevention: Professional treatments help deter wasps from returning, giving you lasting peace of mind.
Learn more about the benefits of pest control in our article What Does Pest Control Do?. Mira Pest Control provides safe and effective wasp control solutions tailored to your needs. Visit our How It Works page for details.
How To Prevent Wasps Around Your Home
Taking preventative measures can reduce the chances of wasps settling near your home:
Inspect your home for gaps or cracks in walls, vents, and windows. Sealing these openings prevents wasps from nesting inside structures.
Wasps are attracted to sweet and protein-rich foods. Keep trash cans sealed tightly and clean up sugary spills or food waste promptly.
Regularly check for early signs of nests under eaves, in bushes, and around decks or outdoor furniture. Removing small nests early can prevent larger infestations.
Invasive yellow-legged hornets found in Georgia
FAQ
What kind of wasps are in Georgia?
Some of the most common wasps in Georgia include the yellow jackets, paper wasps, and hornets all who belong to the Family Vespidae. In the orchards, flower wasps (Family Tiphiidae) are very common.
Do cicada killer wasps sting humans?
Cicada killers are unlikely to sting you unless they feel threatened, and the male has no stinger. The best course of action is to leave them alone and let them feed on cicadas. On the other hand, yellowjackets and hornets can be quite aggressive and do readily sting humans.
How do I identify my wasp?
How to Identify a Wasp? Wasps look similar to bees but have a few distinct differences. They have long, slender bodies with sparse hair. Wasps may be solid black, solid yellow, or bright yellow-orange or yellow and black with stripes.
What is the new invasive wasp in Georgia?
The yellow-legged hornet feeds on a variety of insects. If allowed to establish in the US, this invasive species could threaten honey production and Georgia’s native pollinators. These native pollinators play a vital role in our state’s agriculture industry.