If you’re unfamiliar with the mud dauber wasp, don’t worry because you’re not alone. Also known as mud wasps or simply daubers, they are less popular than their hornet and yellow jacket counterparts. The main reason is its low threat risk. Mud daubers are the least aggressive among the entire species of wasps and can be beneficial in eliminating more harmful insects.
This, of course, is good news for people who are either allergic or deathly afraid of the more dangerous wasps but don’t be completely fooled. Like most insects, mud daubers are still capable of becoming belligerent and stinging you if they feel threatened. You’ll never go wrong with reaching out to professional pest control in Anaheim who offer wasp removal services.
A1 Bonded Termite understands the desire to be able to enjoy your outdoor spaces without the irritation of pests swooping in and disrupting an otherwise harmonious atmosphere. Read on to learn more about these peculiar pests and some effective ways to prevent them from hanging around your property.
What Are Mud Daubers?
Mud daubers are a wasp that constructs its nest out of mud using their mandibles. These wasps are commonly found throughout the United States, and unlike others of their species, they live solitary lives and do not form colonies. Due to their independent nature, their behavior is less volatile, making them harmless to humans unless provoked. Also, mud dauber wasps are unexpectedly beneficial in helping to eradicate other nuisance insects you have on your property. These wasps are considered natural predators and seek out spiders in your yard for their next meal, including the treacherous black widow.
Mud Daubers Are Less Aggressive Than Other Wasps
Unlike the paper wasp, hornet, and yellow jacket, the mud wasp is the most docile of its peer group. This is largely due to the dauber’s anti-social behavior and solitary lifestyle. Since there is no colony to protect, these wasps are rarely aggressive towards people, despite how ominous they look. In fact, even the dauber’s venom is mild compared to other wasps. If one of them does happen to sting you, some of the symptoms may include:
- Pain and tingling
- Redness or discoloration
- Swelling
- Burning
- Itching
Only female mud wasps have stingers, and again, it is unusual for them to attack people. The warmer months are a prime time to see more of these wasps around your yard, especially if you have spiders. Therefore, if you see more mud wasp activity than normal, you could have an infestation of a different insect species that mud daubers feed upon. This is a good indication to contact pest control in your area for an inspection.
Four No-Sweat Mud Dauber Prevention Tips
Even though mud dauber wasps are not considered dangerous, their abandoned nests can become occupied by new, more threatening insects. So, it’s a good idea to remove them to prevent settling in of a different, unwanted pest. Plus, it can still be a little unnerving to encounter mud wasps in your yard, especially if you aren’t able to discern them from their more menacing peers. It’s best to try to prevent them using the following four tips:
- Close off areas where mud daubers like to nest, such as attics, sheds, and underneath porches.
- Create an essential oil blend using citronella and eucalyptus. Spray menthol and water on wood structures, such as eaves and rafters.
- Use different techniques to attract birds that eat wasps, such as starlings, blackbirds, and magpies.
- Contact your pest control in Anaheim to develop a pest control program year-round for maximum results.
Again, reach out to your local pest control for assistance, and do not attempt to remove nests yourself, even if they’re empty. Despite their docile nature, mud wasps can still sting if angered.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of A Mud Dauber Infestation
Mud wasps in Anaheim are no match for highly qualified professionals who are experienced in eliminating different types of wasps. A qualified team can quickly assess your situation by performing a thorough inspection and then execute a plan to eradicate pests with very little disturbance to your daily life.
As a family-owned business, we at A1 Bonded Termite treat customers as if they were a part of our family. With over 45 years in pest control, we provide the best way to get rid of a wasp nest so you don’t have to worry about you or your loved ones being stung. We offer a satisfaction guarantee and flexible scheduling. Contact us today to request your free inspection.