Types of Wasps Found in Central Illinois

Types of Wasps Found in Central Illinois

Several wasp species are common in Central Illinois, and knowing which one you are dealing with can help you understand the level of risk and the best approach for removal. Here is a guide to the wasps you are most likely to encounter.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are slender, brownish wasps with long legs and yellow markings. They build small, open-faced nests that resemble upside-down umbrellas, typically under eaves, porch ceilings, deck railings, and other sheltered spots. Paper wasps are moderately aggressive and will sting if their nest is disturbed, but they are generally not as aggressive as yellow jackets.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are stocky wasps with bright yellow and black banding. They are among the most aggressive wasp species and will sting repeatedly when their nest is threatened. Yellow jackets commonly nest underground in abandoned rodent burrows, but they can also build nests in wall voids, attics, and other enclosed spaces. They are particularly aggressive in late summer when colonies are large.

Bald-Faced Hornets

Despite their name, bald-faced hornets are actually a type of yellow jacket. They are large, black wasps with white markings on the face and abdomen. They build large, enclosed, football-shaped paper nests in trees, shrubs, and on the sides of buildings. Bald-faced hornets are very protective of their nests and will sting aggressively if approached.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build small tubes of mud on walls, under eaves, and in other sheltered areas. They are typically black or metallic blue with a thin, thread-like waist. Unlike social wasps, mud daubers are not aggressive and rarely sting. They are actually beneficial because they prey on spiders.

Cicada Killers

Cicada killer wasps are very large wasps (up to 2 inches long) that dig burrows in lawns and garden beds. Despite their intimidating size, they are solitary wasps and are rarely aggressive toward humans. Females can sting but typically only do so if handled. Males are territorial but do not have stingers.

When to Remove Wasp Nests

Small paper wasp nests can sometimes be handled by homeowners, but yellow jacket nests, bald-faced hornet nests, and any nest in a hard-to-reach location should be handled by professionals. Terminix offers safe, effective wasp and stinging insect removal throughout Central Illinois and Western Indiana. Contact us today for a free inspection.