Illinois residents love outdoor barbecues and gatherings. However, there is one thing that can ruin your fun, and that is wasps. These insects are attracted to food sources, and thus, your BBQ becomes a prime target. The most common culprits in Illinois are yellow jackets and paper wasps. Yellow jackets are known for their aggressive behavior and can sting multiple times.
Meanwhile, paper wasps often build nests near dining areas. To make sure your fun time with your family and friends is not ruined, it is important to prepare ahead. Make sure to check your backyard for wasp nests and take action immediately. However, do not attempt to remove it on your own, as that can be dangerous.
If there is a wasp nest in your backyard or lawn, call Naperville Exterminator Services for a safe removal. This blog will talk about the steps you can take to prevent attracting wasps to your barbeque area.
Why are wasps attracted to your BBQ area?
Wasps are attracted to your BBQ area for several reasons. The main reason is food and drink. Wasps love sweet food items such as fruit, sugary drinks and desserts. They are also attracted to meat and protein, which you might be cooking in your backyard.
Another reason is the scent. The strong smells from cooking or food preparation, especially the scent of grilled meat, can attract wasps from a distance. Also, oils and other fragrances that you use near the BBQ can attract wasps.
Moreover, environmental factors also play an important role. The warm weather near your grilling point creates an ideal condition for wasps to be more active. If your BBQ is located near wasp nests or natural habitats like gardens, wasps are more likely to be nearby and attracted to the food at your BBQ.
How can you keep wasps away from the BBQ?
1. Cover food and beverages.
If you want to keep the wasps away from your BBQ, make sure your foods and beverages are covered. You can use lids to protect your dishes from these stinging pests. Wasps are mainly attracted to sweet foods and meat.
Therefore, covering them properly can reduce their interest. Similarly, always keep drinks sealed and avoid leaving sugary drinks out in the open.
2. Cleanliness is important.
Make sure your BBQ area is always clean. Wipe down the tables and counters and remove any leftover food crumbs or spills. Even the smallest amount of food can draw the wasps. Also, make sure you dispose of trash and food waste properly.
3. Create distractions with wasp-repelling foods.
To keep wasps away from your gathering, try placing wasp-repelling items around your BBQ area. For example, you can set out cucumber slices or fresh mint plants, both of which are known to repel wasps.
You can also use wasp traps or decoys. These traps can attract and trap wasps and keep them away from your delicious food.
4. Use wasp-repellent scents.
Wasp-repelling scents can also help you in keeping these pests at a distance. You can use citronella, eucalyptus, or peppermint oils, which are natural repellents. These oils can be used in candles, sprays, or diffusers placed around your BBQ area.
Moreover, DIY wasp-repelling sprays made from these oils can also be sprayed in the air or on nearby surfaces. It will create a barrier that prevents wasps from getting close.
5. Keep garbage away.
Lastly, keep your garbage away from your BBQ area. Wasps are also drawn to food waste. Therefore, make sure the garbage cans are sealed tightly and empty them regularly.
Protect your BBQ from wasps!
When you have been planning a BBQ with your family and friends for a while, the last thing you want is for it to get ruined because of insects. Protect your loved ones from painful stings and call professional pest control services today!