Bee and wasp infestations near homes are usually caused by available food and shelter, suitable nesting sites, and cracks or openings that let them easily enter homes. More specifically, wasps are drawn to sweet smells and sugary beverages, while bees are attracted to flowers and sweet scents. Plus, attics, wall voids, and other openings and cracks make the best nesting environments. It helps to know what attracts bees and wasps so you can keep them away from your home.
Food Sources
Certain foods can attract bees or wasps to your home, especially if they aren’t properly sealed away. Wasps especially gravitate more toward proteins, like pet food, dead insects, and meats. You can keep bees and wasps away by keeping your outdoor spaces clean and properly storing pet food.
For example, these insects could be drawn to:
- Spilled sugary drinks.
- Fruit.
- Garbage cans.
- Pet food.
- Uncovered meats.
Certain flowering pants also attract bees and wasps looking for nectar and pollen. They usually go toward bright plants and flowers like cone flowers and goldenrod, and herbs like lavender.
Nesting Sites
Bees and wasps are also drawn to homes with plenty of spaces for them to build their nests, such as eaves and overhangs, attics and sheds, and under decks and porches. Leaky faucets, bird baths, and standing water can also be attractive, as they need water sources to survive and build their nests.
Wasps are also known to build nests in the ground. So, if you notice any holes or rodent burrows in your yard, it’s best to quickly fill them to keep wasps away.
Environmental Conditions
Wasps and bees might be attracted to your home simply due to the weather and time of the year. Since they enjoy warmer, dry conditions, you may see an increase in activity in the summer and fall. Also, if you’re close to any forests, fields, or other natural habitats, it’s more common to experience bee and wasp problems.
How to Prevent a Bee or Wasp Infestation
To prevent a bee or wasp infestation, you can seal cracks along your home’s foundation or near windows and doors, or keep outdoor areas like patios clear of spills and garbage.
If the bee or wasp problem persists, consider reaching out to a pest control professional. They have the tools and expertise to handle the problem safely and keep pests from returning.
Turn to Quest Termite & Pest for Professional Pest Control Services
Bee and wasp infestations can be tricky to handle, but with a few preventive steps, you can keep them from invading your home. If you’re noticing a persistent issue or an infestation, turn to Quest Termite & Pest. Our skilled team can inspect the area and provide treatments that address the infestation, as well as preventive measures to keep the critters away.
Contact us to learn more about our services or schedule a free inspection today.
