How to Get Rid of a Great Black Wasp

Quck answer

Great black wasps can be a nuisance, especially if they build their nests near your home. To kill a great black wasp, follow these steps:

1. Identify the nest: Look for large, burrow-like holes in the ground or cracks in walls where the wasp nest might be located.

2. Plan your attack: Choose a time when the wasps are less active, such as early morning or late evening. Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, pants, gloves, and a face mask.

3. Use a wasp killer spray: Purchase a commercial wasp killer spray that contains pyrethrin or a similar insecticide. Spray the nest thoroughly, following the instructions on the label.

4. Remove the nest: After waiting for a few hours, carefully remove the nest using a long stick or a plastic bag. Dispose of it in a sealed trash bag.

5. Prevent future infestations: Seal any cracks or holes where the wasps might enter your home. Keep your outdoor areas clean and free of food sources, such as fallen fruits or open trash cans.

Remember to always exercise caution when dealing with wasps, as they can sting if threatened. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with removing a nest yourself, it is best to call a professional pest control service.


The great black wasp (species Sphex pensylvanicus) is a beneficial insect that helps eliminate other bothersome bugs like grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, katydids, and cicadas. These wasps are often admired for their beautiful appearance, with long black bodies measuring 1 to 2 inches in length and blue-black iridescent wings. However, due to their painful and swollen stings, you may want to eliminate any great black wasps that enter your house or hover around you or your children while spending time outdoors.

Killing a Great Black Wasp Outdoors

Step 1

Wear protective clothing and cover as much skin as possible. Opt for jeans, sweat pants, or slacks, along with shoes, socks, a long-sleeve shirt, and a hat.

Step 2

Use a wasp and hornet insecticide to kill one or two wasps. Purchase a spray can that can reach a distance of 20 to 22 feet, allowing you to keep a safe distance.

Step 3

Eradicate a great black wasp nest. These wasps create burrows, which you may have noticed in a particular area near the ground. Wait until it’s almost dark and the wasps are asleep in their burrows. Then, saturate the nest opening and burrow with the insecticide spray. Another approach involves applying 1/4 cup of insecticide dust to the nest entrance at dawn before the wasps become active for the day. In either case, be prepared to quickly move to a safe location.

Killing a Great Black Wasp Indoors

Step 1

Use a non-insecticide spray that prevents the great black wasp from flying, as you probably don’t want to spray poison inside your house or a screened-in porch. Non-toxic mint sprays can be found at home and garden stores, and they are highly effective. Alternatively, you can saturate the wasp with a cleaning spray.

Step 2

Strike the wasp with a shoe, phone book, or another heavy object. A fly-swatter will not be effective.

Step 3

Either pick up the wasp with a gloved hand or push it onto a fly swatter using the shoe, then take it outside. Be cautious: these insects can be difficult to kill, and the wasp may appear dead when it is only stunned. Once outside, you can ensure that the wasp is deceased by crushing it.

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