When we think of wasps, we don’t really consider the fact that there are many different species of wasp. Well, there are, and today we’re going to focus on one in particular: mud daubers. Mud daubers are a specific type of solitary wasp species that use mud to construct their nests. There are different types of mud daubers within the species, but let’s focus on the broad classification of mud daubers as a whole.
What Defines A Mud Dauber?
These stinging insects are black with pale markings and sometimes a blue metallic shine. They have antennae and long, slender bodies with a thread-like waist and 6 legs. Their wings can be dark or clear, and they measure about ½ - 1 inch in length. Tending to emerge in the warmer weather, they’re most active in the daytime and are often found near puddles and other water sources collecting mud to build their nests.
The thing that differentiates them from other stinging insects is the fact that mud daubers do not live in colonies and they do not defend their nests. Unlike yellow jackets and hornets, mud daubers aren’t afraid of threats to their nests, they would rather leave the old nest behind and build a new one elsewhere than suffer conflict.
Mud daubers also tend to be larger than wasps and have a narrower, more slender body. They prefer to build their mud-constructed nests in sheltered, protected areas. Some common areas they nest include:
- Attics
- Barns
- Brick in mortar joints
- Eaves
- Exterior wood trim
- Facia boards and molding
- Garages
- Porch ceilings
- Sheds
So, Are They Dangerous?
These nuisance pests aren’t considered big threats. They actually help keep spider and caterpillar populations in control by paralyzing them with their sting. Mud daubers are pretty docile and nonaggressive, in fact, they rarely sting. When they do sting, however, it is very painful and can cause allergic reactions.
Something else to note is that after mud daubers abandon their nests, they are often overtaken by other insect species. These newcomers are often more aggressive and expose you to further danger. Insects that inhabit the old nests are likely more threatening than the mud daubers who were there before.
Preventing Mud Daubers
Even though they aren’t dangerous, mud daubers are still nuisance pests, so naturally, we don’t want them hanging around our property. The best way to deal with mud daubers is to be proactive. Consider the following prevention methods to keep mud daubers off your property:
- Eliminate harborage areas and conducive nesting sites.
- Plant wasp-deterrent plants for a natural method of repellent.
- Put out bird feeders to attract mud-dauber predators.
- Seal cracks, crevices, and holes in the building.
- Spray property and residual mud with water.
- Spray vegetation and mulch around pools and birdbath.
Help With Mud Daubers
The suggestions listed above are a great place to start in your mud dauber control efforts. However, none of these methods prevent wasps entirely. They can still find their way onto your Livermore property and they can still find that ideal place to build their nest. It can feel overwhelming and you shouldn’t deal with it by yourself. One of the most important things to remember is to never approach a stinging insect nest on your own. It can be dangerous and it’s just not worth the risk.
The safest thing to do is to get professional mud dauber control services. Contact the team at Pro Active Pest Control today. Whether you’re looking for safe mud dauber nest removal services or you simply want to discuss prevention, we’re here to help. Our team is highly experienced in the detection and elimination of stinging insect activity, and our treatment methods promise lasting results that will keep your property mud-dauber free all year long. Call us today for a consultation.