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Scientists have found that the chemical traces a dying wasp releases can agitate nearby wasps and make them more aggressive. It may not necessarily attract wasps, but it will make wasps in the area more likely to investigate and feel threatened, which leads to more stings. As a result, it’s not a good idea to swat or crush a wasp anywhere near their nest. Once you have found a nest, hire a wasp exterminator.

To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look for several key differences. The most obvious is the size of the rodent: rats are significantly larger with thicker bodies, while mice are much smaller and more slender. You can also identify them by their droppings; rat droppings are larger and rounder, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller, like a grain of rice, and often have pointed ends. Other signs include the sounds they make, as rats produce louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Behaviorally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often. Additionally, rat nests are typically larger than those of mice. If you are unable to see the pest or find clear evidence, a professional inspection can provide a definitive identification.

Moles live underground and feed on insects. They dig and move through tunnels, usually in meadows or forests but sometimes in lawns and gardens. They are about 6 inches long with large claws, tiny eyes, and hidden ears. 

Shrews do not dig their own tunnels but will use other animals’ tunnels, and are about 3 to 4 inches long. They look similar to mice and feed on insects.

Voles are similar in size to moles but have large eyes and small but visible ears. Rather than eating insects, voles are herbivores that prefer seeds, grasses, and plant roots.

To kill fruit flies outdoors, you'll want to make a homemade insecticide or find a plant-safe, nontoxic product. Fill a garden sprayer with your chosen solution and apply it on your plants and around the base of your home's exterior. Take care to limit your exposure to insecticides, as they can irritate skin and eyes. Always rinse garden fruits and vegetables before eating them.