If there is a serious fall yellowjacket problem, how many yellowjackets might need to be trapped?

The situation of a serious fall yellowjacket problem necessitates a significant trapping effort to manage the population effectively. Yellowjackets can form large colonies, especially during the late summer and fall months when their numbers peak as the nests grow in size. A single colony might contain anywhere from a few thousand to over 15,000 yellowjackets, depending on the species and local conditions.

When the problem escalates to 'serious,' it implies that the population density is high enough that simply removing a small number of individuals would not effectively reduce the risk of stings or nuisances. Therefore, the range of 10,000 to 20,000 indicates a comprehensive approach to significantly reduce the potential threats posed by such a large, aggressive wasp population. This aggressive trapping can greatly decrease their numbers, enhance safety for people in the area, and minimize the risk of disturbances.

The context also reflects that fewer traps and efforts could lead to an ineffectual resolution, leaving behind a large and potentially hazardous population. Thus, focusing trapping efforts on a scale that targets the upper ranges of potential infestations is crucial in effective yellowjacket management.