Why yellowjackets are so aggressive in Chicago right now
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An Eastern Yellowjacket Wasp (Vespula maculifrons). Photo: Creative Touch Imaging Ltd./NurPhoto via Getty Images
Chicago can't catch a break from bugs this year.
The latest: Earlier this summer, Asian tiger mosquitoes wreaked havoc on outdoor activities. Now, pest experts say they're getting an uptick in calls about notoriously aggressive yellowjackets.
The big picture: "We have gotten lots of calls for nests in siding, ground nests in yards and gardens, and trees," Fox Valley Pest Control's Marty Sapiega told NBC Chicago.
- Sapiega says he can't confirm there are more yellowjackets than usual, but he's noticed an increase in calls about nests and infestations.
- And September is prime time for run-ins with them.
What's happening: Yellowjacket colonies reach their largest size in late summer and early fall, just as flowers begin disappearing and food becomes scarcer.
- That leaves thousands of hungry wasps searching for food, particularly sugary drinks, fruit and other picnic fare.
- Hot late-summer temperatures can also increase insect activity and dry up water sources, sending yellowjackets farther afield in search of food and water.
Zoom in: Yellowjackets are often confused with honey bees because of their similar coloring. But yellowjackets have shiny, bright yellow-and-black striped bodies, while honey bees are fuzzier and more golden brown.
- They often build nests underground or inside walls, making them easy to disturb accidentally.
- And unlike honey bees, yellowjackets can sting repeatedly.
- More people are stung by yellowjackets than any other type of wasp or bee, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Know your pest: Eastern yellowjackets, one of several species found in Illinois, typically nest underground, while German yellowjackets often set up shop inside walls and other building cavities.
Yes, but: Yellowjackets aren't all bad. They prey on caterpillars and other insects and can also serve as pollinators.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on open pop cans and other sugary drinks outdoors — yellowjackets can crawl inside. And if one starts buzzing around, experts say don't swat at it; gently brush it away instead.
The bottom line: Yellowjackets are here, and they're hungry. If a nest is out of the way, experts say you can wait for cold weather to kill off the colony.
- But if it's near people or difficult to reach, calling a pest-control professional may be safer than taking it on yourself.