§ 01
Signs of a nest
Watch the area on a warm day. If wasps are flying in a fairly straight line to and from the same spot, there is almost certainly a nest there. Common places are roof eaves and soffits, lofts, sheds, wall cavities, air bricks, hedges and holes in the ground. In a loft, nests look like a grey, papery ball.
§ 02
Does it need treating?
A nest at the far end of a large garden that nobody goes near may be left alone, as wasp colonies die off in autumn and old nests are not reused. A nest near doors, windows, patios, bins, play areas or in a loft is a different matter, particularly if anyone in the household is allergic to stings.
§ 03
What not to do
- Don't block or fill the entrance. The wasps will look for another way out, sometimes through a ceiling into the house.
- Don't knock the nest down, spray it with water or try to burn it.
- Don't stand in the flight path or swat at wasps near the nest; disturbed wasps release a scent that alerts the rest of the colony.
§ 04
Wasps or bees?
Wasps are smooth, bright yellow and black with a narrow waist. Honey bees are smaller, browner and hairier, and bumblebees are large, round and furry. We don't treat honey bees; if you have a swarm, a local beekeeping association can often collect it. Bumblebee nests are usually small and short-lived, and can normally be left alone.
§ 05
Keeping safe until it's treated
- Keep children and pets away from the area and close nearby windows.
- Keep sweet drinks and food covered outdoors.
- If someone is stung and has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or feels faint, call 999.
