What To Do About Mud Dauber Nests Around Your Boise Property

What Does A Mud Dauber Nest Look Like?

Mud daubers build unique nests are the biggest sign of an infestation on your property. As their name suggests, they build their nests out of the mud. Some types of mud wasps create nests by forming mud into several one-inch tubes laid side by side. Other mud dauber nests look more like an organ pipes, forming long mud tubes between seven and eight inches in length. Mud dauber wasp nests are typically found in areas with shelter, like in sheds, garages, and barns. You may also find these nests hanging from porch ceilings or eaves in the attic. 
 
One interesting characteristic of mud wasps is that they are solitary creatures, unlike other stinging insects who live in colonies. They also are fairly docile creatures and don't become aggressive or defend their nests. However, they are a nuisance to homeowners, as their nests can grow quite large and become unsightly. There is also a chance that other, more aggressive stinging insects will take over an abandoned nest, causing harm to anyone who tries to remove it.  Contact a wasp exterminator in Boise, like Owyhee Environmental, at the first signs of mud dauber nests on your property.

Mud Dauber Habits And Behavior

The mud dauber life cycle consists of four distinct parts: egg, larvae, cocoon, and adult. Females are responsible for building the nests and raising one to two generations of young each year. Adult mud daubers can be anywhere from half of an inch to one inch in length. Their bodies are black with pale-yellow markings, and they may have a bluish tint. Like other wasps, they have a segmented body with a very slim waist between the thorax and abdomen. Mud daubers are flying insects and have a pair of wings, which can be clear or dark in appearance.

Is It True That Mud Daubers Will Eat Spiders On My Property?

Spiders are a mud dauber's favorite food, especially the black widow spider. When female mud daubers lay their eggs inside each mud tube, they also fill it with spiders for their young to eat. It's not unusual for a single tube to have up to 30 spiders inside. Although mud daubers hardly sting people, they do use their stingers to paralyze their spider prey.

To prevent mud daubers from nesting on your property, try implementing these tips:

• Attract more birds to your property by using bird feeders and baths. Because mud daubers aren't aggressive, many birds enjoy snacking on them.

• Remove their food sources. Mud daubers feed on insects, spiders, and nectar from sweet fruits and flowers. Try to minimize these attractors as much as possible.

• Avoid bright orange or yellow outdoor decor, especially during the summer when mud daubers are most active. They find these colors very attractive.

Never try to remove a wasp nest on your own. The best way to get rid of a wasp nest is by working with a pest control professional.

How To Get Rid Of Mud Daubers Safely And Effectively

Don't let unsightly mud dauber nests ruin your property. Owyhee Environmental is highly experienced in wasp control techniques and has been keeping local homeowners pest free since 2019. We're a top choice for pest control in Boise and offer a money-back guarantee for all services. Contact us today to learn more and request a free estimate.