Where Do Yellow Jackets Go in the Winter?
As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, you may start to notice fewer yellow jackets buzzing around your yard. But where do these pesky insects go when the weather turns cold? The answer is: they go underground.
Yellow jackets are social insects that live in colonies, with each colony consisting of a single queen, hundreds of workers, and a few males. In the fall, the workers and males die off, leaving only the queen to survive the winter. The queen then finds a sheltered spot underground, such as a burrow or a hollow log, where she will hibernate until spring.
Yellow Jackets and Winter Hibernation
During hibernation, the queen’s body temperature drops and her metabolic rate slows down. She enters a state of suspended animation, in which she uses very little energy. The queen’s body fat reserves, which she has built up during the summer months, provide her with the nourishment she needs to survive the winter.
In the spring, when the temperatures start to rise again, the queen will emerge from hibernation and begin to lay eggs. The eggs will hatch into new workers, who will then build a new nest and begin to forage for food. The queen will continue to lay eggs until the end of the summer, when the workers will die off and the cycle will begin again.
Yellow Jackets in Winter: Other Considerations
It is important to note that not all yellow jackets hibernate underground. Some species of yellow jackets, such as the German yellow jacket, are able to survive the winter in warmer climates. These yellow jackets may build nests in sheltered areas, such as under eaves or in chimneys.
If you see yellow jackets in your home during the winter, it is important to take steps to remove them. Yellow jackets can be dangerous if they are disturbed, and they can also spread diseases. To remove yellow jackets, you can use a commercial insecticide or hire a pest control company.
FAQs on Yellow Jackets in Winter
Q: Where do yellow jackets go in the winter?
A: Yellow jackets go underground to hibernate in sheltered spots, such as burrows or hollow logs.
Q: Do all yellow jackets hibernate?
A: No, not all yellow jackets hibernate. Some species of yellow jackets, such as the German yellow jacket, are able to survive the winter in warmer climates.
Q: Are yellow jackets dangerous in the winter?
A: Yes, yellow jackets can be dangerous if they are disturbed, even in the winter. They can sting, and their stings can be painful.
Q: How can I remove yellow jackets from my home in the winter?
A: You can use a commercial insecticide or hire a pest control company to remove yellow jackets from your home in the winter.
Conclusion
Yellow jackets are fascinating creatures that play an important role in the ecosystem. By understanding where they go in the winter, we can better appreciate their life cycle and take steps to avoid being stung.
Are you interested in learning more about yellow jackets? Leave a comment below and let me know what you want to know!
