FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2021
September 28, 2021
YELLOWJACKETS POSE A THREAT FOR AREA RESIDENTS
–Intense yellowjacket activity being detected as we head into the peak of the season
Elk Grove, Ca.— As mosquitoes continue to be very active and the threat of West Nile virus is ongoing, a new menace is arising: yellowjackets! In the past few weeks, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District has received numerous calls from concerned residents battling yellowjacket nests on their property. “While this is not an unusual occurrence for fall, they do seem to be out in larger numbers this year especially compared to previous seasons,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. Many of the calls from residents soliciting help with removal of yellowjacket nests are coming from Orangevale, Carmichael, Citrus Heights and Folsom. In addition, many nests have been found along the American River Parkway and the Sacramento Zoo. “Last week our staff removed 40 yellowjacket nests in a single day,” indicated Goodman. “Considering that each nest can have hundreds to thousands of yellow jackets, this can quickly become a threat to residents,” he explained. For most people a yellowjacket sting will only be painful, but for those that are allergic to them, a single sting can result in a serious reaction that requires quick medical treatment. Foraging yellowjackets can become a huge nuisance in parks, campgrounds and other outdoor recreation areas that are popular at this time of the year. At home, yellowjackets can also be found hiding in woodpiles, tarps, old tires and other areas that provide coverage from weather elements.
Residents are encouraged to call the District if they are encountering problems with yellowjackets and need assistance in removing nests. If a colony is disturbed, they can quickly become agitated and very aggressive increasing the risk of stings. “Our field technicians can safely and effectively locate the underground nests and assist residents in removing them from their property,” said Goodman.
Yellowjackets can also be managed through sanitation by eliminating food sources. It is important to always cover garbage cans and open containers should be emptied out regularly. In addition, residents should properly maintain compost piles and not leave pet food outside. There are also a variety of commercial traps that can be used for yellowjacket control.
For information about yellowjackets or mosquito control services, please visit us at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net or call us at 1.800.429.1022.
–Intense yellowjacket activity being detected as we head into the peak of the season
Elk Grove, Ca.— As mosquitoes continue to be very active and the threat of West Nile virus is ongoing, a new menace is arising: yellowjackets! In the past few weeks, the Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District has received numerous calls from concerned residents battling yellowjacket nests on their property. “While this is not an unusual occurrence for fall, they do seem to be out in larger numbers this year especially compared to previous seasons,” said Gary Goodman, District Manager. Many of the calls from residents soliciting help with removal of yellowjacket nests are coming from Orangevale, Carmichael, Citrus Heights and Folsom. In addition, many nests have been found along the American River Parkway and the Sacramento Zoo. “Last week our staff removed 40 yellowjacket nests in a single day,” indicated Goodman. “Considering that each nest can have hundreds to thousands of yellow jackets, this can quickly become a threat to residents,” he explained. For most people a yellowjacket sting will only be painful, but for those that are allergic to them, a single sting can result in a serious reaction that requires quick medical treatment. Foraging yellowjackets can become a huge nuisance in parks, campgrounds and other outdoor recreation areas that are popular at this time of the year. At home, yellowjackets can also be found hiding in woodpiles, tarps, old tires and other areas that provide coverage from weather elements.
Residents are encouraged to call the District if they are encountering problems with yellowjackets and need assistance in removing nests. If a colony is disturbed, they can quickly become agitated and very aggressive increasing the risk of stings. “Our field technicians can safely and effectively locate the underground nests and assist residents in removing them from their property,” said Goodman.
Yellowjackets can also be managed through sanitation by eliminating food sources. It is important to always cover garbage cans and open containers should be emptied out regularly. In addition, residents should properly maintain compost piles and not leave pet food outside. There are also a variety of commercial traps that can be used for yellowjacket control.
For information about yellowjackets or mosquito control services, please visit us at www.FIGHTtheBITE.net or call us at 1.800.429.1022.
Practice the District D’s of Mosquito Prevention:
DRAIN standing water that may produce mosquitoes.
DAWN and DUSK are times to avoid being outdoors.
DRESS appropriately be wearing long sleeves and pants when outside.
DEFEND yourself by using an effective insect repellent. Make sure to follow label directions!
DOOR and window screens should be in good working condition.
DISTRICT personnel are also available to address any mosquito problems. Call us at 1-800-429-1022 or visit www.FIGHTtheBITE.net
