subject: The Facts About Wasps [print this page] Although wasps provide benefits to the environment by eating smaller insects, they have a very harmful sting and can cause problems for homeowners should they decide to nest in their home or around their property. Homes with fruit trees are of higher risk in the summer months, with the wasps being attracted to sweet fruits.
Thankfully, because wasps dont serve pollination purposes like bees, pest control professionals can choose to kill and eliminate the wasps, rather than just remove them.
Heres a few interesting things weve put together about wasps, which should hopefully help you identify if your property is playing host to a wasp infestation.
Where Do Wasps Nest?
Wasps can nest inside holes in the ground or in hollow trees. However, they have been known to cause bigger problems when they settle in wall cavities, sheds and roofs. The ones in your home can be obvious to spot, because you should be able to hear buzzing or notice a lot of wasps inside. Outdoor ones are a little trickier, so be on the lookout for frequent swarms or large numbers hanging around.
What Do Wasps Eat?
Ideally they love anything sweet like fruits and nectar, but they also find food in trash. The workers feed on liquids, which is why you often see wasps buzzing around the family barbeque. Try to keep drinks covered with a lid when you can, and once they are finished go and put them in a bin before the wasps catch wind of them.
Should I Fear Wasps?
Unfortunately, wasps are known to be more aggressive than bees, and because they can sting their victim more than once, can be a danger to both adults and children. The venom in wasps contains a pheromone that causes other wasps to become more aggressive. For this reason, if you are stung, get inside quickly and keep clear of any other wasps flying around. For this same reason, its really not advisable to swat a wasp near its nest, or you will risk retaliation from the entire hive.
When Should I Be On The Lookout For Wasps
The later stages of summer is when the workers are more often out and about looking for sweet things to bring back to the nest. This is the time youll notice them becoming more of a nuisance around your home.
Removing A Wasp Nest
Due to their potent sting and large numbers, wasp nest removal can be tricky and dangerous. Its advised that you call on professional help to get your problem sorted, so you can take full advantage of their experience, equipment and high grade chemicals.
