Hey everyone,
So I had a bit of a surprise this morning. I walked into my laundry room and found what I’m pretty sure is a yellow jacket queen crawling slowly along the window frame. She was bigger than the usual ones I see outside, and not nearly as fast. I managed to trap her under a jar for now, but I have no idea what to do next.
Queens often slip inside when they’re looking for a warm place to overwinter. Doesn’t always mean there’s a nest—sometimes they just got unlucky and followed the wrong draft.
Check around your attic vents or laundry room exhaust. That’s usually how they sneak in. Happened to me last year!
If she’s moving slow, she’s probably just waking up from hibernation. They’re pretty harmless alone, but I personally wouldn’t keep her inside.
@WindowBuzzWill I’d just slide a piece of cardboard under the jar and take her outside. As long as she isn’t startled, she won’t chase you.
I once found one behind my dryer. Nearly screamed myself hoarse. I released her outside and never saw another one again.
Might be worth checking your crawlspace or attic for any activity, just in case. They usually start nests in sheltered corners.
Funny enough, I had one show up in my bathroom window last April. I think they just wander a bit when the weather swings.
@BugNerdNate Totally agree. When they’re sluggish like that, they’re not aggressive at all. Just escort her outside and you’re good.
If you release her, do it far from the house. They tend to remember cozy spots and try to come back.
I’d still keep an eye out during the next few weeks. If you start seeing more than one, then you probably have a gap somewhere letting them in.