Yellow Jackets

How to Identify Yellow Jackets

Appearance:

• 6 legs
• Black and yellow bands
• 3/8 to 5/8 inch

Habitats:

• Paper nests made of chewed cellulose
• In the ground
• Attics

Threat:

• Yellow jackets are territorial and will sting repeatedly
• Stings can cause allergic reactions

Preventing an infestation:

• Keep trash cans covered
• Avoid sweet-smelling perfumes and scents

More Information:

Yellow jackets are the type of wasp most likely to be confused with honey bees. The best way to tell them apart from bees is to note whether they have hair over their body. Unlike honey bees, yellow jackets do not transport pollen. Yellow jackets are also confused with hornets due to their similar builds. Hornets, however, are usually larger than yellow jackets.

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