However, once the larvae mature in late summer or early fall, all the wasps begin seeking food solely for themselves – and the competition can get fierce. The wasps seek out sugary foods, and become more aggressive and resolute in their quest. Wasp stings to both horses and humans are more common in the fall.

If riders come upon aggressive wasps while trail riding, leaving the area as quickly as possible can minimize the stings. If the group is large, splitting into two groups, one that has passed the wasps and those not yet to the danger area. Horses that are stung tend to buck, so the possibility of being unseated and landing in the middle of the swarm is real.

Once all riders are safely away from the wasps, check over both horses and riders for stings. If a horse has been stung, he may have localized swelling at the site of the sting, and some may break out in hives. If hives appear, the horse's veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatories or steroids. Few horses develop systemic anaphylaxis to wasp venom, but if the stung horse is having trouble breathing, a call to the vet is in order.

Read more at EQUUS magazine.

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