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A wasp's diet varies between species. In most instances, wasps feed their larvae bits of insects that they have killed and chopped up, but the adults feed on sugars from nectar, aphid honeydew, or a sugary liquid produced by their larvae. Most species of wasp are actually parasitic insects, which means they lay their eggs inside other insects and they rarely bother us humans. The wasps that you see most often are the social wasps that come searching for human food.
Wasps are beneficial to ecosystems because they control insect populations, but feared by humans because of their powerful sting. This is why homeowners are concerned about wasp control when they see wasps around their home or garden or spot a wasp nest. Knowing what wasps like to eat is a great way to prevent wasps in the first place.
In general, wasps eat -
But, bald-faced hornets for example, only consume fruit juices and nectar. On the other hand, yellow jackets will consume “human food” and are often found swarming around garbage cans. Sometimes wasps can even make their way into a bee’s nest and steal honey!
The mud dauber wasp is a common predator of the spider in North America. Rather than eating the spider, the mud dauber wasp stings it, paralyzes it and places the corpse in a mud cell in the wasp nest. The larva will then feed on the spider.
Unfortunately, wasps are not a common predator of the mosquito. Wasps are more commonly known for controlling spider and caterpillar populations.
Yes! Paper wasps chew wood pulp to help create their paper-like nests. If you have wooden structures on your property, like your home, make sure you have a wasp control plan to protect your property.
Yellow jackets are commonly known for feeding on human food, like meats, and on other insects and spiders.
The wasp is a predator for many insects but that doesn't mean other animals don't eat wasps. Some natural predators of wasps include:
If you’re eating or drinking outdoors, a great way to prevent wasps is by not leaving food unattended or leaving it covered in an airtight container. Other useful tips to preventing wasp infestations include:
Your local Western Exterminator pest Technician will devise a comprehensive wasp control plan to keep wasps away from your home and family. We also provide wasp nest removal services.
Contact us online to learn more about our wasp control services or give us a call at 800-937-8398.
We have offices across the West Coast states, not just in the major cities. You can find our local pest control Technicians in places such as Seattle, Boise, Chino, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, and Scottsdale. Just enter your zip code below to find our nearest office to you.