From August through October, stinging pests like wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets reach their peak activity in West Michigan. In Grand Rapids, MI, and Kalamazoo, MI, these late summer and early fall months are the most common time for homeowners to encounter aggressive nests — and unfortunately, when many people end up stung or injured.

As the weather begins to cool, colonies are at their largest, and food sources become scarce. This makes stinging pests more defensive and more likely to attack if their nests are disturbed. Understanding the risks, prevention tips, and the safest way to handle an infestation can protect both you and your family.

Why These Months Are the Riskiest

During late summer, wasps and yellow jackets are in high numbers and at their most aggressive. Unlike honeybees, these pests can sting multiple times, and their venom can cause anything from localized swelling to severe allergic reactions. Even if you have been stung before without issue, allergies can develop over time. A person who had no reaction in the past can suddenly experience dangerous symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis.

If you know you are allergic, always keep an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) on hand during this time of year — especially when spending time outdoors. Fast action can make all the difference in a severe allergic reaction.

Common Nesting Locations

From August to October, nests are often well-established and hidden in unexpected places. You might encounter:

• Ground bee and yellow jacket nests – These can be hidden in holes in the yard, often discovered while mowing or walking across the grass.

• Paper wasp nests – Commonly found under the eaves of houses, in trees, or under decks.

• Concealed nests in outdoor items – Unused grills, patio umbrellas, mailboxes, and even storage sheds can harbor dangerous colonies.

Because nests can be difficult to see until you’re too close, homeowners often stumble upon them accidentally — leading to multiple stings.

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

While it’s impossible to fully eliminate the risk of stinging pests, there are several steps you can take to make your property less inviting:

1. Seal entry points – Check siding, soffits, and vents for gaps where pests could start a nest.

2. Inspect regularly – Look for small nests in early summer and remove them before they grow.

3. Cover outdoor equipment – Keep grills, lawn furniture, and umbrellas covered or stored indoors when not in use.

4. Maintain your yard – Fill in ground holes and keep bushes and trees trimmed to reduce nesting opportunities.

5. Limit food sources – Keep trash cans sealed and clean up fallen fruit or sugary drink spills.

Why You Should Call VexGuard Pest Control

While it may be tempting to grab a can of store-bought spray, doing so comes with risks beyond just the stings. Most store-bought wasp sprays are oil-based, and while they can kill pests on contact, they often leave stains on house siding, trim, and other surfaces. Attempting to remove a wasp or hornet nest yourself is also dangerous — especially in August through October when colonies are at full strength. Disturbing a nest can trigger a swarm, leading to multiple stings in seconds.

VexGuard Pest Control serves Grand Rapids, MI, Kalamazoo, MI, and surrounding areas with expert stinging pest removal. Our trained technicians use professional equipment and methods to safely eliminate nests without putting you, your family, or pets in harm’s way. We also identify hidden nests you may not have spotted, reducing the chances of another encounter later in the season.

When it comes to wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, safety should always come first. With VexGuard on your side, you can enjoy your yard this fall without fear of stings — or stained siding.

Don’t take the risk — call VexGuard Pest Control today at 269-353-1727 or visit www.VexGuardPestControl.com for fast, professional stinging pest removal in Grand Rapids, MI and Kalamazoo, MI.