The Daily Pest | Viking’s Blog On Pest Control

The Ultimate Guide to Effective Wasp Removal and Prevention

Written by Viking Pest Control | May 6, 2025

As the weather warms up, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets begin to emerge in full force. These stinging insects can pose serious risks to your family, pets, and property if left unchecked. Early prevention is essential to keep your home and yard safe—and Viking Pest Control is here to help with expert solutions tailored to your region.

Why Wasp Prevention Is Important

Wasp infestations are more than just a nuisance. Their stings can be painful and even dangerous for those with allergies. Beyond the health risks, wasps may build nests in eaves, attics, sheds, and other structures, potentially causing property damage and long-term pest problems.

Working with a trusted pest control provider like Viking Pest ensures your home receives the most effective and proactive wasp prevention available in the Mid-Atlantic region.

 

Common Wasp Species in NJ, MD, DE, and PA

While different species of wasps are active across our service areas, the most common you’ll encounter include:

•    Paper Wasps – Recognizable by their umbrella-shaped open-comb nests, they typically nest under eaves and ledges. They feed on nectar, small insects, and fruit.

•    Cicada Killers – Large solitary wasp species common in the region. Cicada Killers may look intimidating but are generally non-aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked.

•    Mud Daubers – Solitary and less aggressive, these wasps build tube-shaped nests out of mud. They’re known for hunting spiders to feed their young.

•    Yellow Jackets – Highly aggressive and often nesting in the ground or within wall cavities, yellow jackets are frequent uninvited guests at outdoor meals and trash bins.

 

Knowing the species helps Viking Pest develop precise treatment and prevention strategies that address the unique behavior of each type.

 

Why Wasps Might Be Targeting Your Yard

There are several reasons wasps are attracted to your yard or home:

   Abundant Food Sources – Open trash, pet food, sugary drinks, or compost can attract foraging wasps.
•    Water Access – Standing water in birdbaths, gutters, or plant pots is a magnet for thirsty wasps.
•    Nesting Opportunities – Sheds, attic vents, soffits, and even wall voids provide safe harborage.
•    Pollinator Activity – While wasps do help control pests, an overpopulation can harm beneficial pollinators like bees, potentially disrupting your garden's ecosystem.


Wasp infestations can escalate quickly, so taking early action is critical.

5 Simple, Effective Tips to Prevent Wasps

Here are five proven steps to help reduce the risk of wasps on your property:

  1. Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks or gaps in siding, vents, and soffits.
  2. Remove Food Sources: Keep outdoor eating areas clean, tightly seal trash cans, and store pet food indoors.
  3. Eliminate Standing Water: Fix leaks and empty containers that collect rainwater.
  4. Use Natural Deterrents: Plant wasp-repelling herbs like mint, eucalyptus, or citronella near high-traffic areas.
  5. Install Wasp Traps: Set out baited traps early in the season to catch queens before they build nests.

If you're already seeing signs of wasp activity, it may be time to bring in the professionals.

 

Total Wasp Control with Viking Pest

At Viking Pest Control, we understand the unique challenges of pest control across New Jersey, Maryland's Eastern Shore, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Our team of local experts uses cutting-edge, eco-friendly solutions to safely remove wasps and prevent their return. We offer customized residential and commercial treatment plans designed around your property’s needs.

Whether you’re dealing with a few foraging wasps or a large hidden nest, Viking has your back. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and learn how our SMART pest control technologies and family-safe products can protect your home—season after season.