This summer wasps are all around Houston, TX! Wasps are a common sight in Houston, TX, and there are many different types of wasps that can be found in the area. Some of the most common wasps in Houston include:
- Paper wasps: Paper wasps are the most common type of wasp in Houston. They are about 0.75 to 1 inch long and have a black body with yellow or orange markings. Paper wasps build their nests out of paper, which they make from wood pulp. Their nests are typically found hanging from trees or eaves.
- Yellowjackets: Yellowjackets are also common in Houston. They are about 0.5 to 0.75 inches long and have a black body with yellow and black stripes. Yellowjackets are known for their aggressive behavior and will sting if they feel threatened. Their nests are typically found underground or in wall voids.
- Bald-faced hornets: Bald-faced hornets are the largest type of wasp in Houston. They are about 1 to 1.5 inches long and have a black body with white markings. Bald-faced hornets are also known for their aggressive behavior and will sting if they feel threatened. Their nests are typically found in trees or shrubs.
- Mud daubers: Mud daubers are a type of wasp that does not sting. They are about 0.5 to 0.75 inches long and have a black body with yellow or brown markings. Mud daubers build their nests out of mud, which they make by mixing mud with saliva. Their nests are typically found on the sides of buildings or on trees.
- Cicada killers: Cicada killers are a type of wasp that is known for its large size. They are about 1 to 1.5 inches long and have a black body with yellow markings. Cicada killers do not sting humans, but they will sting cicadas. Their nests are typically found underground.
What Are The Difference In Wasps Around Houston?
The different types of wasps in Houston have different behaviors and habits. Paper wasps and yellowjackets are both social wasps, which means they live in colonies. Bald-faced hornets are also social wasps, but they are more aggressive than paper wasps and yellowjackets. Mud daubers and cicada killers are solitary wasps, which means they do not live in colonies.
The different types of wasps in Houston also have different diets. Paper wasps and yellowjackets are predators, which means they eat other insects. Bald-faced hornets are also predators, but they also eat fruit and nectar. Mud daubers and cicada killers are parasitoids, which means they lay their eggs on the bodies of other insects.
If you find a wasp nest in your home or yard, it is important to take steps to remove it. Wasps can be dangerous, especially if they feel threatened. You can hire a pest control professional to remove the nest, or you can try to remove it yourself. If you choose to remove the nest yourself, be sure to wear protective clothing and avoid disturbing the nest.
Here are some tips for avoiding wasps:
- Do not swat at wasps. This will only make them angry and more likely to sting.
- If you see a wasp nest, avoid the area.
- If you are stung by a wasp, remove the stinger as quickly as possible.
- Apply a cold compress to the sting area to reduce pain and swelling.
- If you have an allergic reaction to wasp stings, seek medical attention immediately.
By understanding the different types of wasps in Houston and their behaviors, you can take steps to avoid them and stay safe.
