Enjoying an outdoor space can be challenging when flying insects are present. While seeking to keep insects away from recreational areas, it is important to remember the substantial role bees play in pollination and the wider ecosystem. Successfully managing their presence involves proactive identification and establishing clear boundaries. This approach allows for the safe enjoyment of patios and yards without harming beneficial pollinators.
Identifying the Problem Insect
The first step in effective deterrence is accurately identifying the insect causing the nuisance. True bees, such as honeybees and bumblebees, typically have round, furry bodies and thicker midsections. They are primarily focused on gathering nectar and pollen, making them generally docile unless directly threatened. Wasps and hornets, including the aggressive yellow jacket, present a different profile and behavior.
These insects are smooth and possess a distinct, narrow connection between the thorax and abdomen, often described as a “wasp waist.” Yellow jackets are scavengers, drawn to human food and waste, and are often the primary cause of conflict in outdoor dining areas. Unlike honeybees, which die after a single sting, wasps can sting multiple times. Correct identification is necessary before choosing a management strategy.
Eliminating Outdoor Attractants
Managing the environment to remove tempting food sources is a highly effective preventative strategy. Yellow jackets, in particular, are drawn to easily accessible protein and sugar. All outdoor waste receptacles, especially those containing food wrappers or cans, should have tight-fitting lids and be emptied regularly.
Spilled sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit juice, must be cleaned immediately, as these residues serve as strong attractants. If you have fruit trees, promptly collect any fallen fruit that has begun to ripen on the ground. Even pet food and water bowls left outside can draw various insects; these should be covered or brought indoors when not in use. Reducing these readily available food sources encourages insects to forage elsewhere, establishing a boundary without requiring active repellent use.
Natural and Physical Deterrent Methods
Active deterrence focuses on using non-lethal means to make a specific area undesirable to flying insects. One effective strategy involves scent-based repellents derived from natural oils. Peppermint oil, clove oil, and geranium oil are known to disrupt insects’ navigation and communication systems. These oils can be diluted with water and dish soap to create a simple perimeter spray for patio furniture and railings. Planting certain herbs, such as basil and mint, near seating areas can also release subtle, deterring aromas.
Physical barriers provide a direct means of protection for dining or recreational spaces. Setting up an oscillating fan near the area of concern is an effective method. The turbulent, high-velocity air currents generated by the fan make it difficult for flying insects to maintain flight patterns and land comfortably. For screening porches or covering food during outdoor events, fine mesh netting can serve as an impenetrable physical shield.
Diversion is another technique that works by redirecting the insects’ focus away from the human activity area. For wasps, a territorial species, hanging a fake wasp nest or a brown paper bag in a visible location can act as a decoy. Wasps are less likely to establish a new nest near what they perceive as an existing, active colony. For honeybees, placing a dedicated sugar-water feeder far away from the patio can divert their attention to an area where they are less likely to interact with people.
When to Call Pest Control
While many issues can be managed with proactive deterrence, some situations require professional intervention for safety. If a large, established nest is discovered, especially one within a structural void or underground, it is safest to contact a professional pest control service. Underground nests, often belonging to yellow jackets, can become highly aggressive if disturbed by non-experts.
Honeybee swarms, which are temporary clusters of bees seeking a new home, should be handled by a local beekeeper for safe relocation, rather than extermination. If any household members have known severe allergies to insect venom, professional assessment and removal of nearby nests become a necessity.