Mud daubers build their nests out of mud. These species do not pose any threat to humans. However, their presence around your Fort Collins home might be disturbing. These pests depend on flowers, plants, and spiders as their food source.
These wasps do not generally sting. However, if they bite, it will not cause any serious health problems. If you spot any mud nests on your exterior walls, consulting with Saela Pest Services can help you find a solution. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn some interesting facts about these harmless pests.
What are mud daubers and what do they eat?
Mud daubers belong to the class Hymenoptera. It includes all species of wasps, bees, and many other creatures. Mudd daubers are used to describe a species of wasps that make their homes out of mud. The younger ones live and grow in these spaces.
While growing up, these insects undergo complete metamorphosis. They are larvae in their initial stage and end up turning into a winged, adult form. An adult mud dauber body is usually brown or black in color, with yellow or white markings.
Adult mud daubers feed on plants’ nectar and fluids from the spiders they capture. They also bring spiders as a food source to their nests to feed the larvae population. This can help control the spider population around your property in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Are mud daubers dangerous?
Mud daubers in Fort Collins do not usually cause any harm to humans, pets, and properties as they are solitary wasps and do not need to protect their colonies. Having mud daubers around your property can be beneficial as they are major predators of spiders.
These wasps are not aggressive and do not generally sting until disturbed or provoked. They will only attack or sting if they sense any danger to themselves or their nests. Also, their venom is not very potent enough to cause severe infections in humans or pets. However, in rare cases, allergic reactions may occur.
Since they build small mud nests, they will not cause any significant damage to your property. However, you might need to remove their nests if they are causing your problem.
Additionally, abandoned nests can be invaded by other bee species, like paper wasps, which can be more aggressive. These wasps take over the mud dauber’s nests and start their own colonies.
What are the symptoms of a mud dauber sting?
While the possibility of a mud dauber sting is very rare, accidents do occur. Symptoms of a mud dauber sting appear like a typical bug bite. As their venom is very mild, you will not experience swelling or irritation like other aggressive wasps and bees.
Typical symptoms of a mud dauber sting include redness, pain, swelling, and itching. However, you might need a hospital visit if you have allergic reactions from their venom. People who are allergic to the venom have a higher risk than people who are not allergic.
What attracts mud daubers?
Like any other insects, mud daubers are attracted to spaces where they seek food, water, and shelter. They use mud as a primary material to build their nests. Therefore, places with fresh mud will be appealing to them.
They also want water sources like swimming pools or pond water near their nests. They drink the water and use it to build their nests. Bright-colored and sweet-smelling plants and fruits often attract mud daubers.
These insects can build their nests in a variety of locations where they seek protection and privacy. Mud daubers may often build their nests under eaves, in crevices, on walls, and in attics or crawl spaces.
Are mud daubers bothering you?
While mud daubers are usually harmless, their nests might be unsightly and problematic. Hire a pest control professional in Fort Collins, Colorado, to get rid of the problem today!