Black Wasps

Facts About Black Wasps

Black wasps are easy to identify from other stinging insects; these wasps fly with their legs trailing behind them while most other types of bees and wasps will tuck their legs toward their body as they fly. Another difference between black wasps and other types of wasps is that their body tends to be bigger.

In most cases wasps in general are aggressive, though black wasps are not as aggressive as other wasps. The black wasp will usually not bother other species unless they are aggravated. Of course you may instigate an attack by black wasps without realizing it by stepping on one, or in some other involuntary manner, but for the most part this stinging insect will not sting unless it is handled in some way.

Black wasps appear to be very much like other wasps, aside from being bigger, but in fact they are a very different species. One of the unique aspects of this wasp is that the thorax and abdomen is separate. In fact, black wasps are so different from other wasps that they are technically not even considered to be of the same family. With its difference in body structure, size, and nature, these wasps are in a family of their own.

This species of wasp can often be seen in garden areas, where there are a lot of flowers or other blooming plants. The diet of the black wasp consists of nectar, sap, as well as tiny insects. Other names for this wasp include katydid killer or sphenx pennsylvanica.

Although having these insects around your garden may provide some benefit, as they will kill other types of pests, their stings are very painful and you will not want them around if they tend to be bothersome when you spend time outdoors. You will also not want any black wasps in your house.

Getting Rid of Black Wasps

When you go to kill these wasps you will want to wear protective clothing so that you can avoid being stung.

A can of wasp spray may be okay for killing one or two of these insects, but if you have several you will want to use the type of insecticide that will spray from about 20 feet away so that you can stand back and avoid getting a sting.

Black wasps make their nests in what is known as burrows; these are often near or on the ground. To kill the wasps inside the nest you will want to wait until it is nearly dark and then soak the opening to the nest with insecticide. It is important that you be prepared to move quickly, as these wasp may still attack, even at night and after their nest being sprayed.

When the black wasps are in your house you will have to try and kill them with a non-poisonous spray. The spray will soak their wings and make them unable to fly. At your local garden center you can find several types of spray that are non-toxic but will still kill flying insects. You may also try spraying some household cleaners on the wasp.

You can also hit the wasp to kill it, but you will need something that is somewhat heavy, as a standard fly swatter will not kill black wasps, as they can be very hard to kill. It is not uncommon for these insects to appear to be dead, but only be stunned.

Due to the fact that black wasps are difficult to kill, when you dispose of one or more of these wasps you will want to wear gloves and use a shovel to pick them up.