Wasps are common insects, often sparking curiosity about their nesting preferences. Understanding where wasps build their nests is an initial step in coexisting with them in shared habitats.
Which Wasps Choose Trees for Nests?
Some wasp species frequently build nests in trees and shrubs. Bald-faced hornets, a type of yellowjacket, construct large, enclosed nests high in tree canopies or on branches. These nests can become quite substantial, sometimes reaching two feet in size by late summer. European hornets, the largest true hornets in North America, also commonly build nests in trees, often utilizing hollow cavities within tree trunks or large branches.
Paper wasps are another group that frequently uses trees for nesting. They build smaller, open-celled nests resembling an upside-down umbrella, often attaching them to sheltered tree branches or dense vegetation. While many yellowjacket species primarily nest underground or in concealed cavities, some, referred to as aerial yellowjackets, build paper nests above ground in trees or shrubs. Trees serve as a suitable location for several prominent types.
Spotting Wasp Nests in Trees
Identifying a wasp nest in a tree involves recognizing distinct visual characteristics depending on the species. Bald-faced hornet nests are typically large, grey, and paper-like, often described as football-shaped or tear-dropped, with a single entry hole usually located near the bottom. These impressive structures are commonly suspended from branches and can be high up in the tree canopy. Increased wasp activity around a specific part of a tree, especially a constant flow of insects entering and exiting, often indicates a nest.
European hornet nests, in contrast, are often brownish-tan and more concealed, frequently found within hollows or cavities of trees. While they also construct paper nests, the outer covering may be less prominent if the nest is built within a protected void. Paper wasp nests are smaller and distinct, featuring an open, hexagonal comb structure without an outer envelope, often attached by a single stalk to a branch or other sheltered area. Observing the wasps themselves can also provide clues, as bald-faced hornets are black with white markings, while European hornets have brown and yellow markings.
Why Wasps Build Nests in Trees
Trees offer several biological advantages that make them attractive nesting sites for various wasp species. Elevated positions provide protection from ground predators. Dense foliage and branches also offer shelter from adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain and strong winds, helping to maintain the nest’s structural integrity.
The sturdy framework of tree branches provides stable support for the construction of larger nests, particularly those built by bald-faced hornets, which can grow to significant sizes. Trees can also place nests in proximity to food sources, such as other insects or nearby plants, streamlining foraging efforts. Security, shelter, and structural support make trees a beneficial environment for wasp colony development.
Managing Wasp Nests in Trees
When a wasp nest is found in a tree, prioritizing safety is paramount, which includes maintaining a safe distance and avoiding any disturbance to the nest. If the nest is in a remote part of the yard and poses no immediate threat to people or pets, it is best to leave it undisturbed, as wasps typically abandon their nests at the end of the season. Nests not in high-traffic areas are generally considered beneficial, as wasps can help control other garden pests.
Removal might become necessary if the nest is located in an area with frequent human activity, such as near a doorway, playground, or frequently used path. For larger nests or those belonging to aggressive species like bald-faced hornets or European hornets, professional pest control services are the recommended option. These professionals possess the necessary equipment and expertise to safely remove nests without endangering residents or themselves. Attempting DIY removal for large or active nests can be dangerous due to the risk of multiple stings and potential allergic reactions.