Wasp Pest Control Explained! – No Mumbo Jumbo

Wasp Pest Control, Avoidance & Management

Unlike bees, wasps have not earnt the affection of the UK public.

Being cited as one of the most annoying factors of British summertime, the wasp has a habit of ruining BBQ’s and seemingly actively seeking out to sting innocent picnickers.

If you are having wasp pest control issues on your property or in your business or are worried about being stung, Avon Pest Control strongly advises using a professional wasp pest management company, as wasps can become very aggressive at times.

Why is Wasp Pest Control Necessary?

The two most common types of wasp in the UK are Vespula Vulgaris and the German wasps Vespula Germanica.

Both carry painful stings, which, if you are sensitive to it, can cause Anaphylaxis. A type of allergic reaction which can be life-threatening.

Additionally, a distressed social wasp releases a pheromone which summons nearby colony members. These members arrive in a defensive and aggressive stance.

Therefore, increasing the chances of being stung even more.

Anaphylaxis

If someone has symptoms of Anaphylaxis, treat the condition as a Medical Emergency and CALL 999 for an ambulance ASAP. If you do not have a severe allergic reaction, the sting will still be very painful. Cold compresses can help sooth the pain.

Should Wasps’ Nest always be Removed or Treated?
Is it better to Relocated them?

Wasps play an important role in our ecosystem by helping to control pest populations, such as caterpillars and greenfly, protecting farm crops and gardens.

Wasps can also contribute to pollination whilst searching for nectar, therefore wasps should only be treated when they are a health and safety risk.

After summer, wasps vacate their nests and do not return to it.

What are the Best Times to perform Wasp Pest Control

The colony is less aggressive if treated in early spring.

At the beginning of spring, a wasps’ nest may contain a solitary queen wasp, a few workers and be the size of a golf ball.

By summer a nest can contain thousands of wasps, reaching the size of a beach ball.

When colder weather arrives at the end of the year, wasps begin to die naturally of starvation or cold.

If you suspect wasps are nesting in or around your property, follow a worker wasp which should lead you back to the nest’s location.

Nests are often constructed in sheltered spots such as under eaves, trees, brushes and in wall cavities.

How can I Identify a Wasp?
How can I see the difference between a Wasp and a Bee?

Wasps can be easily confused with some species of bees due to their similar shape.

Here, at Avon Pest Control we will only treat a bees nest as a last resort if the nest poses a significant health and safety threat.

Before taking any further steps, try to clarify which insect type you are dealing with.

• Hairy or bald? Bees tend to have a covering of little hairs which aids pollen gathering, whilst wasps are usually smooth and shiny.
• Food sources: a bee’s diet consists of nectar and pollen produced by flowers, whilst wasps eat insects and sugars. If the insect is bothering you for your sugary drink, it is most likely a wasp and not a bee.
• Colour: bees have black and golden/orange stripes, whilst wasps have black and very bright yellow stripes.Wasp

Wasp Eradication or Relocation?

Treating a wasp nest can be dangerous.

Unlike bees, wasps do not die after one sting, and can sting multiple times defending their nest.

At, Avon Pest Control we use professional insecticides positioned at the nest entrance which the wasps then bring into their nest.

This safely treats the nest, solving your wasp problem.

Wasp nest

Here, at Avon Pest Control, we strongly urge you not to attempt to remove or treat any nests yourself.

Over the counter products are unlikely to resolve the issue (especially for more established nests) and will aggravate the release of even more wasp pheromones. This will summon even more colony members. Increasing the potential of receiving multiple wasp stings which could be fatal.

Wasp Pest Control Tips & Prevention is Better than Cure

Take preventative measures to reduce the chances of wasps nesting on or in your property.

• Seal all small holes and gaps in your buildings and out-buildings such as lofts and other dry or secluded spaces in your proeperty.
• Use insect mesh to cover all air bricks in your buildings.
• Treat timber with shop bought wasp repellent, or Eucalyptus, Menthol and Citronella mixed in Teak oil.
• Invest and install in fly screens.
  • During the warmer months we tend to keep our doors and windows open, allowing in welcome fresh air and unwelcome wasps.
  • Fly screens fitted to windows and doors can help prevent wasps and other flying insects from getting into your home.
• Put a lid on it!
  • Bins with open lids attract wasps.
  • Position all bins away from your home with lids securely closed at all times.
• Consider plant varieties and placement.
  • Avoid planting sweet smelling plants and fruit bearing trees too close to your home.
• Stay vigilant!
  • Keep an eye out for increased wasp activity in spring.
  • Early detection of a nest always result in an easier resolution of the problem.

If wasps are causing a nuisance or are being determinantal to public health, call Avon Pest Control for professional advice, information, and removal/treatment pricing.