A popular Bay Area park is warning visitors to take caution after reporting a “higher-than-normal population” of wasps swarming the area.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park, a 2,800-acre state park in Marin County, is home to one of the first recreational campgrounds in California and is also frequently sought out for its scenic hikes and picnic areas shaded by redwood trees along Lagunitas Creek. But over the past week, park staff have received multiple reports from visitors who have spotted the six-legged species, and staff are taking steps to track their whereabouts, Peter Ostroskie, a spokesperson for California State Parks’ Bay Area district, told SFGATE.
A perfect storm of mild weather conditions over the summer and increased food availability have likely contributed to the surge in yellowjackets, a type of social wasp that is among the most common found in Northern California and loves to scavenge for its meals. Lagunitas Creek provides a constant flow of water to the park, while cooler temperatures and drizzle have not only contributed to the growth of vegetation in the area, but also the number of campers who may leave behind snacks and sweet beverages for the wasps to go after, Ostroskie said…