Photo Album: Paper Wasps Take Over Control Panel in Eatontown, NJ
Paper Wasps Have Taken Control
When I arrived, the homeowner led me to the area where they were seeing the wasp activity, which was around the control box for the pool equipment. I began inspecting the control box and discovered several paper wasps inside the control box.
Also called Umbrella Wasps
Paper wasps received their name from the paper-like material out of which they make their nests and are sometimes called umbrella wasps, because of the shape of their nest. They are semi-social stinging insects, about 5/8 - 3/4 of an inch in size and are mostly brown with some yellow coloration. While not an aggressive species by nature, paper wasps will sting if they are disturbed or their nest is threatened.
Time to Dust
Because the paper wasps had constructed their nest in an electric power supply box, I determined the best course of action was to use a dusting application, which does not affect the electrical components inside.
Neutralized the Wasps
Using my hand duster, I applied a very small amount of dust behind the control panel. This will eliminate the wasps inside and the residual will prevent any other foraging wasps from returning.
Bye Bye Paper Wasps
After waiting a short period of time the customer removed the panel cover and I removed the paper wasp nest and disposed of it properly.