Wasp nest warning from pest experts
Experts at a national trade body are urging householders to call in pest professionals if they discover a wasp nest in their home or garden.
British Pest Control Association (BPCA) says wasp nests should be left alone if they are away from people and pets, but if one does need removing, it should be done by a pest professional.
Wasps are beneficial insects that feed on other insects, by destroying many harmful bugs that attack our landscape ornamentals and home vegetable gardens. However, they tend not to be very friendly to us, when we encroach on their territory.
Many DIY ‘remedies’ for wasp nests are dangerous and can result in angry wasps trying to defend their home.
Natalie Bungay, technical manager at BPCA said: “We’ve heard reports of the general public using home remedies like ant powder, pressure washers and even kettles of boiling water to try and get rid of a wasp nest.
“Not only are these methods unlikely to stop your problem, they’ll almost definitely lead to angry wasps, defending their home. Wasps that feel threatened can emit a pheromone which acts as a distress call to other wasps and may trigger a defensive stinging frenzy.
“At this time of year, wasp nest populations are reaching their peak – with up to 300 eggs being produced every day and up to 5000 adults feeding grubs and building the nest structure.”
Late August is typically considered the height of ‘sting season’ and BPCA has an online guide with video, to help people understand what to do if wasps are becoming a problem in their home or garden: bpca.org.uk/wasps
Wasp nests have been found in a wide variety of places, including loft spaces, under eaves, in toilet cisterns, up trees and even in brass instruments. These nests should be dealt with by a pest management professional.
However, not all wasps’ nests require treatment. Wasps are accidental pollinators and pest controllers, feeding on small flies and aphids. They will abandon the nest in autumn, so if the nest is in a little-used area, it’s probably best to leave them in peace.
Natalie added: “We always advise seeking help from a properly trained and qualified professional pest controller such as a BPCA member, when dealing with nuisance wasp nests.
“Not only do they have access to specialist products that are not available to the public, they are also trained and equipped to deal with added hazards such as working at height. Much of the advice found online simply doesn’t work, while some DIY methods are actually dangerous.
“Never attempt to deal with a wasps’ nest by yourself. If a nest needs to be removed, call a pest professional, such as a BPCA member, for help.”
A BPCA member company will have the technical knowledge and experience to apply products in an efficient manner while minimising risk to the environment and non-target species.
To find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find
BPCA members:
- Carry the correct insurances.
- Are trained and qualified technicians.
- Are assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636
- Follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.