A wasp sting hurts, and for most of us that is the end of it. For some people, though, a sting is life-threatening and can be fatal. A few sensible precautions, along with proper management of any nests, go a long way towards reducing that risk.
Wasps have a habit of nesting exactly where people like to spend time: shaded corners of the garden, around an outdoor dining area, or up in the eaves. Plenty of nests end up in attics and lofts, where they sit undiscovered and undisturbed through winter, only becoming obvious once the warmer spring weather draws the wasps out.
The wasp year, from queen to colony
It all starts with the queen. She emerges from hibernation in spring, as the days lengthen and the weather warms, and sets about building a nest. Through the season more and more worker wasps hatch, and by the height of summer activity is at its peak. UK wasps are at their most active in the warm summer months.
You will see plenty of workers, but it is only the female wasps that have a sting they can use again and again, and they will do so if they feel threatened.
Where wasps build their nests
Most nests go up outdoors in sheltered spots: trees, the protected space under eaves and similar places. If a wasp finds its way inside your home, though, the options multiply. Wall cavities, roof spaces, attics, lofts, internal garages and sheds all make tempting sites.
There is some biology working in your favour. A worker wasp lives only 12 to 22 days, while a queen can survive for up to a year. Wasps are social insects, and their colonies depend on successful mating. Unmated wasps eventually die off. So the fewer wasps there are in and around your home, the fewer there are left to mate.
Dealing with a wasp problem safely
Clearing wasps is rarely straightforward. Sprays can keep them at bay, but they do not always do the job. The most effective approach is to treat the nest itself, which brings the problem under control and reduces the risk of a serious sting.
If you have noticed a lot of wasps around your home, or you have spotted a nest that worries you, we would strongly recommend leaving it to a professional rather than tackling it yourself. Our wasp removal specialists will deal with the nest safely and get rid of the problem. We are open every day except Christmas Day, from early until late.