Nesting vs. Foraging Wasps

When dealing with wasps, it’s important to know whether they are nesting nearby or simply foraging for food. Let’s break it down!

Common Wasps in Harrisburg, PA

You’re most likely to encounter one of these three distinct wasp species—Paper Wasp, Bald-Faced Hornet, and Yellow Jacket—each with unique nesting habits and preferred locations.

Paper Wasps – Nest under eaves and overhangs, creating umbrella-shaped nests that are easy to spot. Identified by their long legs dangling as they fly.

Bald-Faced Hornets – Despite their name, they’re actually a species of yellow jacket. They build large, football-shaped nests in trees and on structures. Recognizable by their black bodies with white markings—and their aggressive nature!

Yellow Jackets – Typically nest in wall cavities, hollow trees, or underground. Their nests are hidden, making them harder to locate. They resemble other yellow and black wasps and bees.

Nesting Wasps vs. Foraging Wasps

All three species have both “nesting” and “foraging” wasps within their colonies, each with their own specific responsibilities.

-Foraging Wasps: Searching for Food

Travel long distances looking for food and nesting materials

Move slowly, bobbing up and down, landing near small holes to check for food

Often seen hovering near flowers, trash cans, or outdoor food sources

-Nesting Wasps: Protecting the Colony

Near the Nest: Nesting wasps stay close to home, frequently flying in and out of the nest entrance. They are most active around gaps in siding, holes in the ground, or any internal cavity where their colony is established.

Structured Flight Patterns: Unlike foragers, these wasps fly with confidence and purpose, following a clear, direct path to and from the nest—much like an airport with designated flight lanes. Their movement is smooth and controlled, rather than erratic.

Defensive Behavior: Nesting wasps will aggressively protect their colony if they sense a threat. Disturbing the nest can trigger a coordinated response from the defenders, so caution is key when approaching suspected nesting sites.

Look for gaps in siding, holes in the ground, or other small openings—these could be entry points to a hidden nest!

What Should You Do?

Observe their behavior–only if safe–and report it to me. This helps determine the best course of action.

Pest control services can reduce the number of foraging wasps but won’t stop them from flying onto your property—that’s just nature. However, a protective barrier around your home can encourage them to move on quickly.

If you’re unsure about the wasps around your home, reach out, and let’s figure it out together!