Really Aggressive Insect Threatening to People and Pets in Arizona

Arizona is known for a wide variety of creepy, stinging, venomous creatures. Beyond the usual suspects,

If you’ve lived in Arizona long enough, you’ve probably had a run-in with yellowjackets. If you did, you know it was not a pleasant experience. These aggressive wasps are more than just a backyard nuisance, and they can become a real threat, especially during the warmer months of the year.

Yellowjackets in Arizona

Yellowjackets are found in all 50 states. Like hornets, they're a predatory wasp in the Vespidae family. These flying insects are well-known for their aggressive behavior.

Yellowjackets are social insects. They live in colonies and they're most active during the warmer months.

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Yellowjacket Species in Arizona

Yellowjackets are aggressive and can sting repeatedly. There are four main species of yellowjackets found in our state:

1. Western Yellowjacket
2. Common Yellowjacket
3. German Yellowjacket (invasive)
4. Aerial Yellowjacket (less common)

Where are Yellowjackets Found?

Yellowjackets are very common in residential areas and like to nest near homes and businesses.  They're most active during summer and early fall.

They often build nests:

• Underground (e.g., in abandoned rodent burrows)
• In wall voids or attics
• Under eaves or decks
• In shrubs or trees

It's not easy to get rid of them. Once their nest is disturbed, they don’t hold back. Honeybees and other insects in the Apidae family can only sting once. Yellowjackets, on the other hand, can sting repeatedly, and they'll sting in swarms when threatened.

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The Danger of Disturbing a Yellowjacket Nest

Disturbing a nest, whether by accident or during yard work, can trigger a full-on attack. Their venom isn’t just painful; it can be deadly. These stings can trigger a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock even if you're not allergic to bees.

If that happens, immediate treatment with epinephrine is critical in order to prevent serious complications such as brain damage, kidney and heart failure, or death.

How to Get Rid of a Yellowjacket Nest

So what’s the best way to deal with them? Whatever you do, don’t try this alone. If you see a nest, especially near your home, call a professional pest control service. You can find a ton of DIY methods on the internet, but they can be risky without proper equipment and timing.

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Prevention: Don't Attract Yellowjackets

The best way to keep yellowjackets away from your property is to avoid attracting them in the first place.

Keep food sealed, trash covered, and sugary drinks indoors. Yellowjackets are scavengers, and your barbecue leftovers are their buffet.

Yellowjackets in Arizona aren’t just annoying, they’re dangerous. And call a professional for help.

Sources: AZ Pest | AZ Animals | Wikipedia