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Entomology (Study of Bugs)/paper wasps
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Question
I live in southwestern Idaho where paper wasps are prevelant outside but this fall I have seen about 5-6 new paper wasps inside my home every day since about the first of October. I'm not sure where they are coming in although they are usually found against a window. Do I need to have them exterminated or is killing them as I see them, adequate to prevent a huge infestation in the spring?
Sheila,
I highly doubt there will be an infestation in the spring. It sounds like they're either outside your house (in an eve or under something)and some get lost, or they're hibernating within a wall. They'll probably clear out in the spring if they're hibernating somewhere. I wouldn't go to any extreme measures, but I'm pretty sure they'll go away, if they're not gone by mid-December or early January, I'd say try and find where they're coming from and then see if extermination is necessary.
Best,
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Answers by Expert:
Teá Kesting-Handly
Expertise
I can answer almost any question pertaining to Butterflies, Moths, Fireflies, dragonflies, scorpions, honeybees, wasps, and bumblebees. I specialize in Butterflies, Moths, and Scorpions and I will be able to tell you how to care for it, identifying it, keeping it healthy, and diagnose diseases or fungi infection of any sort (with scorpions, it is more difficult but I will try). I am very good with treating bites and stings, ask if you have any questions regarding that. PLEASE, NO QUESTIONS ABOUT PESTS OR ANYTHING TOO SMALL TO SEE AS I WON'T BE ABLE AND WON'T ANSWER YOU.
Experience
I work at the Museum of Science in Boston, Mass. as a Butterfly Garden volunteer. I have studied and raised butterflies and moths since 2003. I had a pet scorpion and usually large assortment of butterflies and moths and have a fair amount of information on all of them. I have successfully bred many species of butterflies and moths and can identify most on the spot. I have experience in treating fungal infections and disease in many insects.
Organizations
Museum of Science, Boston MA
Harvard University's Pierce Labs, Cambridge, MA
Publications
www.buglifecycles.com
Education/Credentials
High School- 12th Grade
Taken a Biology exam at a college advanced level (93/100 final score)
Taken an Entomology college final exam at an advanced level (112/114 final score)
Awards and Honors
Bausch and Lomb science award
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