{"id":374,"date":"2024-08-14T14:42:48","date_gmt":"2024-08-14T14:42:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.northernpest.com\/blog\/?p=374"},"modified":"2024-08-14T15:12:27","modified_gmt":"2024-08-14T15:12:27","slug":"yellowjackets-are-at-their-peak-in-michigan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.northernpest.com\/blog\/yellowjackets-are-at-their-peak-in-michigan\/","title":{"rendered":"Yellowjackets are At Their Peak in Michigan!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Though resembling bees, yellowjackets aggressively defend their colonies, which reach peak size and aggression in late summer. During August and September, these insects become particularly hostile while guarding their nests\u2014found underground or in trees, shrubs, wood piles, and buildings, and hosting up to 5,000 members. While <\/a>yellowjackets<\/a> help control pests like caterpillars and flies, they turn troublesome as they increasingly seek out sugary foods such as soda, ice cream, and other sweet beverages during these months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Are Yellowjackets Most Active in August?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yellowjackets typically live between 12 and 22 days, spending their time constructing papier-m\u00e2ch\u00e9-like colonies from their saliva and chewed wood. Their activity begins in May, peaks in August when the final wasps and next year\u2019s queen are raised, and the colony reaches maturity. By November or December, all yellowjackets except the hibernating queen die, who then lays eggs to restart the cycle in spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although they resemble bees, yellowjackets can sting repeatedly without dying and their venom is significantly more potent. While a bumblebee sting might feel like a slight pinch and heal quickly, a yellowjacket sting can cause intense pain for hours and lead to swelling and itching that persists for days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Protecting Yourself!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If a yellowjacket is near, be still and wait until it flies away. Swatting them will cause them to become more agitated, which may result in one or more stings. Stepping on them will cause more harm because when they die, yellowjackets release an odor that will attract more wasps. Their only intent is to attack!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prevention Tips<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best way to deal with aggressive stinging insects is to prevent encounters before they happen. Follow these tips to help safeguard yourself and family:<\/p>\n\n\n\n