Pest control SOS – what can you do about angry wasps?

While insects are a staple part of spring and summertime in the UK, as the Autumn approaches, pest controllers often get calls about the number of angry wasps starting to appear. But is there anything you can do about it?

Understanding wasp behaviour and seasonal patterns can help you navigate troublesome encounters with these insects. Prevention and professional pest control are your best allies in dealing with aggressive wasps, ensuring your activities remain enjoyable and sting-free.

If you’ve got a wasp control issue where you live or work, here are some key things to know.

When is it wasp season in the UK?

UK wasp season typically starts around late spring, when the queen wasps emerge from hibernation. During this time, they begin building their nests and foraging for food, so as the season progresses, wasp populations increase, peaking in late summer before declining. This is when you’re most likely to encounter aggressive wasps searching for food.

Being aware of wasp season is crucial because prevention and early action are the key to avoiding problems. If you notice a wasp nest on your property during the early stages of construction, it’s best to deal with it promptly before the colony grows larger and more aggressive. Wasp nest treatments can also take longer to work in the Autumn, so it’s best to call your pest control company as early as possible.

What time of year do wasps get aggressive?

Contrary to popular belief, wasps are not aggressive creatures by nature. However, certain factors can trigger their defensive instincts, leading to aggressive behaviour. Most of the trouble comes in the late summer and early Autumn when they have more contact with humans.

Their original Queen will have gone by this point, leading to less disciplined direction for the colony as it declines. Wasps are attracted to sugary food and drink sources at this time of year when their flower and insect supplies diminish. They become angrier if they think their food is being threatened.

The shorter daylight hours can also lead to wasps being attracted to artificial light, so you may find them appearing inside your home more often than at the height of spring and summer.

What’s the best pest advice for controlling wasps?

Dealing with angry wasps or a nest can be a daunting task, but there are effective ways to manage the issue.

The best way to stop an angry wasp problem is to prevent them from becoming an issue in the first place. Keep food and drinks covered when dining outdoors, use wasp traps and seal any cracks in your home to prevent nesting. If you come into contact with an angry wasp, stay calm and avoid swatting or making sudden movements. Slowly and gently move away from the area.

Professional pest control is the easiest solution if you discover a wasp nest on your property, as attempting to remove a nest yourself can be dangerous and may provoke the wasps, leading to stings.

Need a wasp nest removal?

If you have a wasp problem at your property, please call the team at Effective Pest Solutions. We cover the South East, including Bromley and Carshalton.

For a free quote or advice, contact us now.