It seems that new invasive species are wreaking havoc in the US quite frequently. From giant pythons to nutria to the spotted lanternfly, our guard has to remain sharp. Then, when something as scarily named as the Asian Murder Hornet shows up, our fears can trick us into seeing something that’s not there. In Northern Illinois, residents can easily mistake one of our own giant stingers for the Asian. Cicada Killers are nearly as big at 1.5 inches and have similar coloring. They don’t have the nasty disposition or burning sting of the Asian, although the name is still daunting. If you picture battles in midair between the wasp and cicada, the reality is very different. Cicada Killers hunt the cicada, paralyze them, and bring them back to the burrow, and lay eggs on them while the cicada is still alive. When the eggs hatch, the nymphs feed on the live bugs. While they aren’t particularly aggressive, they won’t attack unless threatened. This usually happens by accident because their burrows are in the ground and can be stepped into.
Unfortunately, there are more aggressive stingers here to avoid. On the top of that list are yellowjackets. They, too, live in the ground, making them all too accessible. In our homes, they adapt well by nesting in attics and walls. They are extremely territorial and are one of the most vicious wasps. Once they are in attack mode, their smooth stinger allows them to jab their victims many times. Like us, they enjoy the taste of meat, which attracts them to barbecues and Sunday morning bacon and eggs. They also enjoy having a sugary soda, so be careful if they are around; you may end up with one in your mouth.
Baldfaced hornets come in a close second to the yellowjacket for aggressiveness. They have relatively small colonies, about 400 insects, but don’t let the size fool you. Their football or basketball-shaped nests can be as low as 3 feet off the ground, and you don’t want to walk into one. Unlike other hornets, they can attack when their space is violated, not just threatened. Just the vibration of a passing lawnmower is enough to trigger a horde of them. They are social insects and can recognize one another by face.
If you come across a papery, honeycomb-looking hive, beware the paper wasp. There are about 22 species of them in the United States. They are attracted to nectar, so be especially careful around flower beds. They are not as aggressive as the others but attack with a painful sting when threatened. As the weather gets colder, they may look for a warm spot inside your home. During warmer months, try and avoid flowery smelling perfumes and colognes.
Some of the worst allergic reactions to stinging insect venom come from the previous list of candidates, and about 10% of the population develop these allergies.
If these buzzing menaces are intruding your home, outdoor living space, or business, contact Wildlife Services. Our technicians are trained in the most up-to-date techniques for removing unwanted pests. We are the most-trusted removal service in Boone, Cook, Kane, and the surrounding counties for these stingers and other nuisance wildlife.
