The Largest Wasp Nest Ever Found

At backyard barbeques and summer picnics, we’ve all encountered our share of annoying yellowjackets. They are attracted to the fatty foods and sugary drinks we enjoy outdoors and to open garbage cans. 

Also known as social wasps, yellowjackets are from the Vespidae family. The average size of their nests range between 1000 to 5000 worker insects and one queen. Since yellowjackets are beneficial predators, they are protected and encouraged to nest in areas of infrequent human or animal activity (See Pest Notes Publication 7450, “Yellowjackets and Other Social Wasps” 

However, a Florida entomologist with 20 years’ experience recently stumbled upon the surprise of his life:  A gigantic wasp nest measuring eight feet wide and six and a half feet tall with thousands of queens.

“I have never seen a nest this large in my life,” said Jonathan Simkins from Insect I.Q. that specializes in insect pest control, who was called out to a private land parcel leased out to hunters. “This is the prehistoric nest from the dinosaur ages.”

Before Simkins initiated eradication, he videotaped his amazing yet terrifying find. You can watch the footage at:

http://www.wfla.com/story/22658024/local-expert-faces-dangerous-challenge-with-huge-yellow-jacket-nest.html

Let’s hope and pray that these yellowjackets stay in Central Florida. I know the next time I see one buzz by, I’ll be glaring at it flint-eyed!)

Gigantic wasp nest - source WFLA-TV News Florida

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