News and Music Discovery
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Wasps More Likely to Sting in Fall

Murray, KY – Wasps and yellowjackets are a common sight this time of year. The stinging insects are looking for t heir final meal of 2008. But, University of Kentucky entomologist Lee Townsend says wasps and hornets could be aggressive this fall.

"particulary after we have a relatively dry summer like we've had now, moisture is short for them and food is short so they become much more aggressive and persistent in trying to get some of the food and moisture they need from food we have or fruit that we may have in out backyard."

Townsend says these wasps are dangerous especially to those allergic to their venom.He adds, though the threat from wasps, hornets and yellowjackets typically ends after the first or second killing frost.