What are Yellowjackets?

Yellowjackets are aggressive stinging insects that belong to the wasp family. They are easily identified by their black and yellow striped bodies and rapid, darting flight patterns. Unlike honeybees, yellowjackets can sting multiple times, making them a serious threat when their nests are disturbed. They are highly social insects that live in colonies, often building nests underground, inside wall voids, or in trees and shrubs. Yellowjackets are attracted to sweets, meats, and outdoor food, which is why they are commonly seen around garbage cans, picnics, and barbecues.

Signs of Yellowjacket Infestation

• Increased activity of black and yellow stinging insects flying in and out of a single area
• Nests built underground, in wall cavities, attics, trees, or shrubs
• Aggressive behavior when people or pets get close to a nesting site
• Swarms of yellowjackets around outdoor food, drinks, or garbage bins
• Loud buzzing and fast-flying insects near doors, patios, or decks

Why They are a Problem

Yellowjackets are one of the most dangerous stinging pests due to their aggressive behavior. Unlike bees, they can sting repeatedly, and their stings cause painful welts and swelling. For individuals who are allergic, a single sting can trigger a severe reaction requiring immediate medical attention. Outdoors, yellowjackets can make backyards, parks, and patios unsafe for children, pets, and customers. Indoors, nests built inside walls or attics can damage structures and pose safety risks if disturbed.

Where Do They Come From?

Yellowjackets build colonies during the spring and summer, reaching peak populations by late summer and early fall. Common nesting sites and attractants include:

• Underground burrows or rodent holes
• Wall voids, attics, and crawl spaces
• Trees, shrubs, and hedges
• Outdoor garbage bins, recycling areas, and compost piles
• Picnic tables, patios, and areas where food and sugary drinks are left exposed

How to Get Rid of Yellowjackets at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of yellowjackets, here are some effective steps:

• Keep outdoor garbage bins sealed tightly and clean them regularly
• Avoid leaving sugary drinks, meats, or sweet foods uncovered outdoors
• Cover compost piles and reduce attractants around the yard
• Seal cracks and gaps in siding, eaves, and foundations to prevent indoor nesting
• Place baited traps away from high-traffic areas to reduce activity

Attempting to remove a yellowjacket nest on your own can be dangerous due to their aggressive nature. Professional removal is strongly recommended.

Yellowjackets vs Hornets

Yellowjackets are often confused with hornets, but there are distinct differences:

• Yellowjackets are smaller, with bright yellow and black stripes, while hornets are larger and often brown with white or yellow markings
• Yellowjackets commonly build underground or structural nests, while hornets build large paper nests in trees or on structures
• Hornets are less aggressive unless threatened, while yellowjackets are highly aggressive and sting readily

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we provide safe and effective yellowjacket control for both residential and commercial properties. Our trained technicians locate nests, apply targeted treatments, and remove colonies without putting your family, pets, or employees at risk. We also provide preventive strategies to keep yellowjackets from returning, giving you peace of mind throughout the season. With our professional expertise, you can enjoy outdoor spaces and protect your property from these aggressive stinging pests.