Finding a wasp nest on your property can be alarming, especially if you have children, pets, or family members with allergies to wasp stings. Wasps can become aggressive when their nest is disturbed, which poses a danger to anyone nearby. However, it’s crucial to handle this situation with care, as improper removal can result in painful stings or the nest growing larger. In this guide, we’ll explore what you should do when you find a wasp nest, as well as the best wasp control methods to ensure safety and prevent future infestations.
Understanding Wasp Behavior
Before deciding on how to approach a wasp nest, it’s important to understand the behaviour of wasps. Wasps and hornets are social insects that build nests to house their colonies. While wasps can be beneficial to the ecosystem by controlling insect populations, they can become a problem when their nests are close to human activity.
Wasps are generally more aggressive in late summer and early autumn when their colonies are at peak size. They defend their nests fiercely and will sting multiple times if they feel threatened. For this reason, professional wasp control is often the safest option.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Keep a Safe Distance
If you find a wasp nest on your property, the first step is to remain calm and keep your distance. Wasps will only attack if they feel their nest is under threat, so avoid swatting at them or making sudden movements near the nest. In most cases, wasps will leave you alone if you leave them undisturbed.
- Safe Distance: Stay at least 6-10 feet away from the nest to avoid provoking the wasps. Keep children and pets indoors if the nest is close to your house.
Step 2: Identify the Type of Wasp
Different species of wasps require different approaches for removal. Identifying the type of wasp on your property can help you decide whether you can manage the situation yourself or if professional wasp control services are needed.
Common Types of Wasps:
- Common Wasps (Vespula vulgaris) and German Wasps (Vespula germanica): These are the most aggressive wasps in the UK. They often build nests in wall cavities, sheds, or underground, and their colonies can become large, making professional removal the safest option.
- Paper Wasps (Polistes dominula): These wasps build small, umbrella-shaped nests in sheltered areas like eaves, under decks, or in bushes. While they are less aggressive than other species, they can still become defensive if their nest is disturbed.
- Hornets (Vespa crabro): European hornets build large, enclosed nests in trees, lofts, or attics. Although hornets are less aggressive than common wasps, they will defend their nests fiercely if provoked, making them particularly dangerous.
If the wasp nest is located in a high-traffic area or if you’re unsure of the species, it’s best to call a professional pest control service.
Step 3: Assess the Location of the Nest
Where the nest is located plays a significant role in deciding the next steps for removal. Wasps often build nests in sheltered areas such as eaves, garages, garden sheds, and trees. While some nests are relatively easy to access, others may be more difficult or dangerous to reach.
- High-risk Areas: Nests near entryways, decks, or children’s play areas are considered high-risk and should be removed promptly.
- Low-risk Areas: If the nest is in a remote part of your garden and not posing any direct threat, you might consider leaving it alone, as wasps generally abandon their nests by late autumn.
Step 4: Choose the Right Time to Act
If you decide to remove the nest yourself, timing is everything. Wasps are less active during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Attempting to remove a nest during the day, when wasps are most active, increases the risk of being stung.
- Best Time: Early morning or late evening when wasps are in the nest and less likely to be active.
Step 5: Consider DIY Wasp Control (with Caution)
If the wasp nest is small and located in an accessible area, you may consider removing it yourself. However, DIY methods should only be attempted with extreme caution, and only if you are not allergic to wasp stings.
DIY Removal Options:
- Wasp Spray: Insecticidal sprays specifically designed for wasp control can be purchased from hardware stores. Spray the nest at night when wasps are less active, following the instructions carefully. Stand at a safe distance and aim the spray directly at the nest.
- Wasp Trap: Wasp traps, which lure wasps into a container where they cannot escape, can be used to reduce the wasp population around your home. These traps are useful for small infestations but may not solve a larger problem.
- Knockdown Method: If the nest is very small (e.g., golf-ball size), you can knock it down with a broom or long stick while wearing protective clothing. This should be done at night, and be prepared to move away quickly if the wasps become agitated.
Important: Always wear protective clothing, including gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and safety goggles, when attempting DIY wasp control.
Step 6: Call a Professional Wasp Control Service
For larger nests or nests located in difficult-to-reach areas (such as inside walls or high up in trees), it’s best to call a professional wasp control service. Professional pest control experts such as Tech Country Pest Control in Sussex have the necessary tools, protective gear, and experience to safely remove wasp nests without putting anyone at risk.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals:
- Safety: Professionals can remove nests safely without the risk of stings.
- Expertise: Pest control experts can identify the species and recommend the best course of action.
- Long-Term Solutions: Professionals can also provide preventive treatments to stop wasps from returning.
Step 7: Prevent Future Wasp Nests
After the nest has been removed, take steps to prevent wasps from returning and building new nests on your property. Here are some effective wasp prevention tips:
- Seal Entry Points: Check for cracks or holes in the exterior of your home, especially near rooflines and eaves. Seal any gaps to prevent wasps from entering attics or wall cavities.
- Keep Food Covered: Wasps are attracted to sugary foods and drinks. Keep food covered during outdoor activities, and clean up spills immediately.
- Maintain Your Garden: Trim back overgrown shrubs and trees where wasps are likely to build nests. Removing potential nesting sites makes your property less attractive to wasps.
- Install Wasp Deterrents: Consider placing decoy nests around your property. Wasps are territorial and are less likely to build a nest if they see another one nearby.
Conclusion
Finding a wasp nest on your property can be unsettling, but taking the right steps can help you manage the situation safely. Whether you choose to handle the problem yourself or call a professional wasp control service such as Tech Country Pest Control in Sussex, acting promptly is essential to protect your home and family from stings and potential dangers. Always prioritise safety, and if in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek expert help for large or hard-to-reach nests.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your property stays wasp-free and that any infestations are handled efficiently and safely.
Act Now!
Need help with a wasp nest on your property? Tech Country Pest Control offers fast, safe, and eco-friendly wasp nest removal services across Sussex.
Contact us today for a free consultation and ensure your home and family are protected from stings and potential dangers.