Wasps

What do red wasps look like?

Red wasps measure between ¾ and 1 inch long. These stinging insects are mostly rust-colored. Some may have yellow markings on their mouths or portions of their legs. Females are typically redder than males. They have two sets of dark-colored wings and are easy to spot around yards and outdoor living spaces because of their large size and coloring. 

What do red wasps eat?

Red wasps have a mixed diet:

• Nectar from flowers
• Protein from insects like caterpillars, beetle larvae, and cicadas
• Leftover protein scraps and other items in open trash receptacles

Do red wasps sting?

Yes, female red wasps can sting multiple times due to their smooth stingers. Their stings are painful but usually cause only localized pain and swelling.

For people with allergies to stings, even a single sting can be serious and may cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Male red wasps do not sting.

Are red wasps aggressive?

Red wasps are less aggressive than other species, but they will defend their nests. If a nest is disturbed, the colony may attack as a group.  

What attracts red wasps to homes and yards?

You may be surprised at some of the things that bring red wasps onto your property:

• Flowering plants provide a source of nectar. 
• Bugs provide an ample source of protein. Yards that do not have pest management are more susceptible to wasp problems.
• Open trash receptacles can lure wasps with the scent of leftover food.
• Sweet substances, such as ripe fruit and sugary drinks. 
• Branches, logs, stumps, and scrap wood can attract wasps. They use the pulp to create their nests.
• An accessible shed or power box can attract wasps, particularly in the winter, if the temperatures dip down a bit.
• Puddles and other water sources provide a drink. While wasps can derive moisture from nectar and other food sources, they still need water for survival. 

Tip: Walk around your property and look for these attractants. Reducing them makes your property less appealing.

Where do red wasps nest?

Red wasps create aerial nests. You'll find them mostly in sheltered locations. They want to create their nests in spots that are protected from heavy winds and rain. Here are a few places you'll find them.

• Under roof overhangs.
• On the ceilings of porches.
• Underneath and inside power boxes.
• In the umbrellas of unused lawn furniture.
• Inside sheds and other outbuildings.
• Inside tree cavities.
• Within wall voids.

When you find a wasp nest, contact your Anti-Pest service team for nest removal. 

How far do red wasps travel from their nest?

Red wasps typically forage within about 50 yards of their nest, but if food is scarce, they may travel farther. This means wasps you see around your home may actually be nesting nearby, even if you don’t spot the nest right away.

How do I get rid of red wasps?

Reach out to Anti-Pest for help dealing with red wasps on your property. Our pest control company provides ongoing home pest control services and commercial pest solutions that address stinging insects and other pest problems. Committed to service since 1950, Anti-Pest has proudly served Bossier, Caddo, and DeSoto Parishes; you can depend on us! 

How can I make my property less appealing to red wasps? 

To discourage wasp activity on your property, we recommend:

• Removing the attractants mentioned above. 
• Sealing entry points to keep them out of your home or building.
• Keeping your exterior lights off when not in use to reduce other insect activity.

Quick FAQs About Red Wasps

• Do red wasps die after stinging?
  No. Unlike honeybees, red wasps can sting multiple times.
• How long do red wasps live?
  Most live one season. Queens may overwinter and start a new colony the following spring.
• Are red wasps beneficial?
  Yes — they help control caterpillar and beetle populations. But around homes, the risk of stings usually outweighs the benefits.

Don’t Let Red Wasps Take Over Your Yard

If you’re spotting red wasps near your porch, shed, or roofline, don’t wait for a sting. Call Anti-Pest for professional wasp control in Shreveport, Bossier City, and throughout Northwest Louisiana. Our team provides nest removal and year-round protection so you can enjoy your yard without the worry of stinging insects.