How Dangerous Are The Wasps In Surprise?

What is your first reaction when you cross paths with a wasp? Do you turn around and head back in the direction you came? Do you freeze up and hope it leaves you alone? Maybe you have no fear of wasps and don’t mind walking by one as long as it doesn’t actively look like it wants to hurt you. No matter how you feel about wasps, one thing will always be true: a sting from one of these pests hurts. The question is, how bad does it hurt, and beyond the pain, are there any lasting effects that come with wasp stings? To answer these questions, here are some things to consider about wasps in Surprise.

What Wasps Live In Surprise?

Surprise is home to more than a few species of wasps. The three most common wasps in our area are yellow paper wasps, Navajo paper wasps, and Arizona paper wasps. Less common species include the tarantula hawk, cicada killers, weevil wasps, and yellow jackets. All wasps share a few things in common such as their pinched midsections and two pairs of wings. Color and size are fully dependent on the species.

Which Wasp Sting Hurts The Most?

Every wasp sting hurts. The question is, which hurts the most? Surprise is home to the most painful wasps in all of North America. They are called tarantula hawks, and they are big and scary-looking. The average tarantula hawk is two inches long and has a dark blue, iridescent body, bright orange wings, and long legs. Being so recognizable is the only benefit this pest offers. A sting from one of these pests is rated at just a little less than the pain of a bullet ant sting on the pain spectrum. If you didn’t know, the bullet ant has the most painful sting on the planet. If you are ever stung by one of these pests, seek medical attention immediately, as symptoms can be severe and sometimes life-threatening. With all of this in mind, tarantula hawks are not common in our area and the chances of one building a nest on your property are slim.

Are Common Wasp Stings Dangerous?

The average wasp is not a threat to the average human. If you do not have any allergies to insect venom and are stung by a paper wasp, cicada killer, or yellow jacket, your symptoms will be mild with a small to moderate amount of pain that will fade in a few days. If you are allergic to insect venom, however, a sting from a wasp could be life-threatening. To find out if you are allergic to these pests, consult with your doctor.

Five Ways To Deter Wasps From Your Property

1. Knock down newly formed wasp nests that have not grown larger than a golf ball. Do this during the day and when they are empty.

2. Pick up fruit and berries that fall into your yard.

3. Clean up thoroughly after outdoor gatherings, making sure to leave no scraps of food or uncovered beverages out in the open.

4. Keep beverages and dishes of food covered when hosting outdoor gatherings. 

5. Consider removing flowers and other budding plants from your property.

What To Do If Wasps Build A Nest On Your Property

If you notice a forming wasps' nest on your Surprise property and you know it is too big for you to handle on your own, involve the experts at Green Home Pest Control. Our team of highly trained pest technicians has the advanced tools and safety equipment needed to effectively remove fully formed wasps' nests from properties. 

Reach out to us today if you have any questions about our services or about the pests we treat.