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How to Prevent Wasp Nests

Wasps are beneficial insects that help pollinate flowers and prey on insect pests. The types of nest produced by wasps depend on the species of wasp and location. Most social wasps build nests from wood fibers and can consist of many thousands of wasps. Wasps can deliver many painful stings that can lead to itching, swelling and even anaphylactic shock in persons allergic to their venom. If you are worried about wasps stings, there are many ways to prevent wasps from building their nests in your home or property.

Things You'll Need

Insecticidal dust
Caulk
Weather stripping

Instructions

- 1
  Locate and treat any ground wasp nests on your property. Look under decks, patios, porches, garage ceilings and other places where you have seen wasps build their nests and treat the entrance at night with an insecticidal dust when wasps are least active.
- 2
  Cover abandoned rodent holes or other burrows in your yard. Fill the holes with dirt to prevent wasps from nesting underground.
- 3
  Remove food sources. Do not leave food or drinks uncovered outside. Wasps will remember food sources and nest in places where they have found food before.
- 4
  Seal entry points of your home to prevent solitary wasps from coming inside and nest indoors. Caulk cracks and crevices and use weather stripping around windows and doors to eliminate voids.
- 5
  Inspect your home and property on a weekly basis for wasp nests. Treat any wasp nests you see immediately before they have a chance to grow.

Insects & Science