What is the principal target for control of wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets?

The primary target for controlling wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets is their nests. Destroying the nest is crucial because it eliminates a significant portion of the population, including both adult insects and larvae housed within. By removing the nests, pest control efforts effectively reduce the breeding sites and the overall number of wasps in the area. Additionally, nests can be a source of aggression; when disturbed, adult wasps may become more defensive, increasing the risk of stings. Thus, focusing on the nests is the most direct approach to controlling these stinging insects, limiting their impact on humans and pets.

While targeting larvae, food sources, or adult insects may seem viable, they do not address the root issue of ongoing infestation and reproduction as directly as nest removal. For instance, if the nest remains intact, new generations of wasps can emerge, leading to a resurgence even after addressing adult insects or larvae separately.