The Mexican Honey Wasp: A New Threat in Central Texas

As Central Texas residents become more accustomed to various wildlife and insect life around their homes, there’s a new player in town that might take some by surprise — the Mexican honey wasp. Though relatively new to the area, this stinging insect is creating a buzz, quite literally, and it’s important to understand what they are, how they behave, and the potential threat they pose.

What is the Mexican Honey Wasp?

I’d like to introduce the newest flying stinging insect to the Central Texas area: the Mexican honey wasp. It’s been migrating from Mexico into Central Texas over the past 20 years, gradually expanding its range. Initially found only south of San Antonio, these wasps have made their way north, and since 2010, they can now be found as far north as Temple and Waco.

The Mexican honey wasp has some intriguing characteristics, blending features of both traditional wasps and honey bees. While they construct their nests from paper (which they create by gathering bark from nearby trees, much like wasps), they also store honey in a manner similar to honey bees. The honey is stored within wax compartments inside their nests, making this species quite unique.

Identifying Mexican Honey Wasp Nests in Central Texas

One of the key identifying features of these wasps is their nest. These giant, paper-made nests are built high up in the thin limbs of trees, typically about 20 feet or more off the ground. The nests often grow to be larger than a five-gallon bucket and can become a prominent feature in the trees they inhabit.

During spring, the Mexican honey wasp starts its colonies with populations in the tens of thousands. As the year progresses, their numbers increase dramatically, especially by late summer and into fall, as they prepare for winter. This preparation includes both growing their population and ensuring an adequate food supply.

The Danger of Wasp Nests in Trees

In fall, these nests can become particularly dangerous. The Mexican honey wasp’s large, paper-like nests are vulnerable to the elements. Winds and rains from seasonal storms can increase the weight of the nests, while tree limbs themselves start to dry out and become brittle as the trees prepare for fall. This combination can cause nests to fall from the branches, posing a risk to those on the ground.

Homeowners in Central Texas often only become aware of these wasps when the trees begin losing their leaves in autumn, making the nests much more visible. If you spot a nest, it’s important to take appropriate action — the earlier, the better, to avoid the risk of nests falling or stinging incidents.

What to Do if You Spot a Mexican Honey Wasp Nest

If you discover a wasp nest in trees, it’s crucial to avoid disturbing it. Mexican honey wasps can be aggressive when they feel threatened, and their large numbers make them particularly hazardous.

In some cases, relocation is possible. At times, we’ve relocated these nests for scientific study by both UT and A&M. This process is relatively straightforward. The limb holding the nest is carefully cut, and the nest is transported intact to its new destination. Removal and relocation should always be handled by professionals, as improper removal can lead to significant risks.

Wasp Nest Removal: The Process and Importance

The Mexican honeywasp in Austin, TX, is not something that homeowners should take lightly. The removal process requires expertise and the right equipment. Typically, professionals will assess the location of the nest, the size, and any potential hazards. Since these nests can contain tens of thousands of wasps, removing them without proper protection is dangerous.

When removing a nest, professionals will often cut the limb it’s attached to, ensuring the nest remains intact during transport. This method minimizes the disturbance to the wasps, reducing the risk of an aggressive swarm.

How the Mexican Honey Wasp is Different from Other Wasps and Bees

Although they are wasps, the Mexican honey wasp differs from other species of wasps and bees in several ways. First and foremost, they are one of the few wasp species that produce honey. This makes them quite unusual, as wasps are typically not known for their honey production. In addition, their nesting behavior sets them apart from bees, who build their hives out of wax instead of paper.

Despite these differences, Mexican honey wasps can be just as defensive as bees and other wasps when it comes to protecting their nests. Homeowners should exercise caution if they come across one of these nests in their yard or trees.

The Impact of Mexican Honey Wasps in Central Texas

Over the past few decades, Mexican honeywasp in Austin, TX, and the surrounding Central Texas area have become more common, raising concerns about the long-term impacts they could have on the local ecosystem and residents. While they do produce honey, which can have benefits for pollination, their sheer numbers and tendency to build large nests in populated areas pose safety risks for homeowners.

Moreover, because of their increasing presence, it’s likely that more people will encounter these wasps in their yards or outdoor spaces, heightening the risk of stings or even allergic reactions for those who are susceptible.

Preventing Wasp Infestations

The best way to handle Mexican honey wasps is to prevent them from nesting in your trees or property in the first place. Homeowners should regularly inspect their trees, particularly in the spring and early summer when wasps are starting to build their colonies. If you see any unusual activity, such as wasps flying in and out of a particular tree, it’s a good idea to have it checked out by a pest control professional.

Taking action early can prevent the wasps from building up their population and constructing large nests, which are more dangerous and more difficult to remove later in the year.

Conclusion

The Mexican honey wasp is an insect that Central Texas residents will need to become more familiar with, as its range continues to expand in the region. While they may seem fascinating due to their honey production and unique nesting habits, these wasps can pose significant risks, particularly in the fall when their nests become large and heavy.

If you notice a wasp nest in trees on your property, it’s essential to contact a professional pest control service for proper assessment and removal. Removing the nest safely can prevent stings and reduce the likelihood of a dangerous encounter with these aggressive insects.

By staying informed and vigilant, Central Texas homeowners can reduce the risks posed by this new invader and ensure their outdoor spaces remain safe and enjoyable.

Need Wasp Removal Services in Austin, TX?

If you’re dealing with a bee or wasp nest on your property, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger issue. Here at Keith’s Bee Service, we’ve been providing safe, chemical-free bee and wasp removal in the Austin area since 2000. Our eco-friendly, no-kill approach ensures that both your family and our valuable pollinators stay safe. Plus, with our one-year guarantee and same-day service, you can trust us to handle the problem quickly and efficiently. Reach out today and let us help you keep your home and yard safe from stinging insects!

Categorized in: Wasps