As August rolls in, so do some of the most aggressive pests of the season—wasps and yellowjackets. These stinging insects are more than just a nuisance. They’re territorial, unpredictable, and downright dangerous if provoked. In Southeast Alaska, where summers bring a burst of outdoor activity, knowing how to handle these late-summer stingers is essential for protecting your home, business, or seasonal cabin.
Why August Is Prime Time for Wasps and Yellowjackets
Wasps and yellowjackets build up their colonies throughout the spring and early summer. By August, colonies are at their largest and resources are running low, making the insects more irritable and defensive. They are now focused on protecting the nest, searching for sugary foods, and fending off threats—including you.
Key reasons for increased activity in August:
- Mature colonies: Nest populations can reach hundreds to thousands.
- Food shortages: Wasps become aggressive scavengers for sugary or protein-rich food.
- Reproduction: New queens and drones emerge, increasing overall traffic near nests.
Where They’re Hiding: Common Nesting Spots
Wasps/yellowjackets are clever about where they build their nests. Here are some of the most common nesting locations in Southeast Alaska properties:
- Under eaves or rooflines
- In attics or wall voids
- Inside outdoor sheds or garages
- Beneath decks or porches
If you spot a single wasp going in and out of the same spot repeatedly, you may have a nest on your hands.
The Real Danger: Why You Shouldn’t DIY Wasp Control
Wasps and yellowjackets can sting multiple times and don’t hesitate to do so when they feel threatened. A small disturbance to the nest can trigger a swarm response, and what seems like a harmless bug spray attempt can quickly escalate.
Risks of DIY removal:
- Multiple stings (especially dangerous for allergic individuals)
- Incomplete removal (the colony may rebuild)
- Hidden nests (especially inside walls or underground)
When to Call a Professional
If you see:
- More than a few wasps/yellowjackets per day
- A nest (even a small one)
- Activity around wall voids or underground
- Insects entering and exiting the same location
…it’s time to call Alaska Pest Management.
We don’t just eliminate visible insects—we inspect for hidden nests, use safe and targeted treatments, and help prevent re-infestation.
Prevention Tips: Keep Stingers Away
While professional help is often needed for nest removal, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of wasps setting up shop on your property.
✅ Seal Entry Points: Close up cracks, vents, or gaps where wasps can build nests or sneak inside.
✅ Secure Trash: Keep garbage bins tightly sealed and clean—yellowjackets are drawn to decaying food.
✅ Remove Food Sources: Don’t leave pet food, meat scraps, or sugary drinks outside during barbecues or gatherings.
✅ Limit Standing Water: Bird baths, plant saucers, or clogged gutters can attract insects that wasps prey on.
✅ Hang Decoy Nests: Some people use fake nests to deter territorial species like paper wasps. While not always 100% effective, it’s a low-cost deterrent.
What to Do If You’re Stung
Most stings are painful but not life-threatening. However, seek medical help immediately if you or someone else experiences:
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives or rash beyond the sting site
- Dizziness or confusion
Even one sting can be serious for people with allergies.
Why Alaska Pest Management?
We live and work here in Southeast Alaska—so we know the unique pest challenges that come with life in this environment. Our wasp and yellowjacket services include:
- Thorough inspection of your property
- Safe, targeted treatments designed to eliminate the nest
- Preventative recommendations to keep stingers away
Whether you’re dealing with a nest now or want peace of mind before your next outdoor event, we’re ready to help.
Don’t Wait—Stings Only Get Worse in Late Summer
By the time you notice a nest, it’s often already home to thousands. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that a surprise sting ruins your day—or your weekend cabin trip. Contact Alaska Pest Management today for professional stinging insect control in Ketchikan and throughout Southeast Alaska.
