Wasps in Jamaica

Description:

A wasp is any insect of the order Hymenoptera, most have two pair of wings and a narrow petiole, or “waist,” which attaches the abdomen to the thorax. They range in colour from black to metallic greens and blues and vary in size from almost microscopic to several centimeters long.

Environment and Behaviour:

Wasp species are categorized as social or solitary. As their name implies, social wasps live in colonies, which may number in the thousands. Within these colonies, female workers perform all duties within the nest. Solitary wasps live alone and therefore do not have a colony. They do lay eggs, but their eggs are left alone to hatch.

Signs:

The presence of workers and the nest are the most likely signs.

Disease:

A mature wasp nest can hold up to one thousand wasps. If a nest is disturbed, wasps may attack as a means of defence. Apart from multiple painful stings, you may also have an allergic reaction to the venom contained in a wasp’s sting. They can also harm your children and pets. Stings are painful because they inject venom that contains specific chemicals that cause an immediate burning sensation. The venom also contains chemicals that are involved in allergic reactions.

Treatment:

Although all social wasps capture insects such as flies, caterpillars, beetle larvae, etc., and thus are beneficial, destruction of colonies is warranted when located in or around structures and areas of human activity where a probability of human stings can occur. G.O.® Pest Control Service technicians will devise the best course of action to tackle this problem.