10/22/2020
Because last winter was mild, 2020 brings us a terrible year for Yellow Jackets. Its important to know these are not the Beneficial Honey Bees we love. These will even rob a honey bees hive and winter food storage if given the chance. A yellow jacket may look similar to a bee, but it is not a bee. It is a wasp.
Please try to avoid using chemicals on Blooming plants that Bees are also using. If you must use chemicals target the yellow jacket nests.
Here are some tips to avoid yellow jacket stings this fall.
1. Stay calm. Although the most difficult step, it is crucial to not react with any sudden movements when you see yellow jackets. Movements such as flailing your arms around will irritate the pest and cause it to attack multiple times. Take a deep breath and try to walk away from the area as slowly as possible.
2. Cover any open food or drinks. This tip especially applies to outdoor picnics. Yellow jackets are able to sneakily crawl into an open bag of chips or can of soda without you even noticing. It also doesn’t hurt to inspect food and drink items before ingestion.
3. Avoid strong, highly sweet smells. This includes intensely scented perfumes, lotions, and shampoos.
4. Avoid bright colors. Refrain from wearing bright colors (especially yellow) and busy floral patterns.
5. Keep clean. Wipe hands, faces and outdoor surfaces to ensure that any food/drink residue isn’t left behind.
Please keep safe. Yellow Jacket stings can be very dangerous and deadly. Especially for people who may have an allergic reaction! Educate yourself about your local species and when youre not sure, call a professional.
