5 Types of Stinging Insects to Avoid

In this article, IPM Pest & Termite – conveniently located in Lexington, Kentucky (KY) – is here to tell you about stinging insects that you should watch out for in your yard. We are highly skilled exterminators with experience in ants, spiders, bed bugs, termites, and much more.

Most of us don’t particularly like insects , especially when they get into our homes and the spaces we inhabit every day. We are here to help you know which insects to really avoid. Read on to learn more about five different types of stinging insects that you should avoid.

Cicada Killers are the first type of insect you should be sure to avoid. The Cicada Killer is a large wasp that can vary in size from about one inch to one and a half inches. They are black or rusty colored and have yellow bands on their abdomen. This type of wasp typically burrows in sod-covered areas in the ground. They typically won’t damage the grass when burrowing. You will often see the adult hovering approximately one to two feet above the ground near its nest.

Mud-Daubers are another one to avoid. They are shiny black wasps that are also long and slender. They make nests out of mud that tend to resemble long tubes. There will typically be several of these tubes next to each other, resembling pipe organs. These insects don’t often sting and are often considered beneficial in reducing spider populations, but you should still be wary around them.

Scorpions are also an insect to avoid. They are found all across the country. They nest under rocks, tree bark, boards, garbage cans, and rubbish piles. They can be about two inches long and the pain of a sting from a scorpion can be about as painful as a that from a bee or wasp. Some types are poisonous, so if you do get stung, it might be beneficial to see a doctor immediately.

Africanized Bees offer a maximum threat to your home and backyard. They look like a honey bee but are slightly smaller. They are most common in Northwestern U.S. They nest in hollow, disturbed areas including discarded tires, empty cars, crates and boxes. They are easily provoked when defending their hive. They will likely, if provoked, attack in tremendous numbers and pursue threats further than any other insect. If you see Africanized Bees anywhere on your property, call us immediately.

Yellow Jackets are also a common threat to our homes. They nest underground in old and expanded rodent burrows. They can also sometimes nest in wall voids, bushes, and on low-hanging branches. A single nest can contain several thousand yellow jackets. These insects are highly aggressive, and intruders can be swarmed in just a matter of minutes. This can result in getting stung hundreds of times.

Do you have a problem with any of these awful stinging insects? We, here at IPM Pest and Termite, are here to help. We offer innovative pest control that is safe for your home, family, business, and even the environment. Not only are our methods great, we are incredibly professional and have tons of experience in entomology. We are determined to help you resolve your pest control problems. We have experience with termites, bed bugs, ants, spiders, centipedes, and more. We are located in Lexington, Kentucky and proudly serve the entire surrounding area, including Nicholasville, Versailles, Georgetown, Richmond, and Winchester, KY, as well as these neighborhoods: Pinnacle, Waterford, Cumberland Hills, Copperfield, Palomar, Masterson Station, Equestrian Woods, and Firebrook. Give us a call today!