BPCA predicts a rise in wasp figures after the mixed summer weather created a delay in their usual pattern of emergence.

The cooler climate has seen the pests focus on rearing their young, predominantly feeding on wood-based material to build their nests.

But our experts say they could now start to emerge as their focus switches to sweeter items - the time in their life cycle when they are most disruptive to humans.

BPCA Membership Manager, Kevin Higgins, said, “At the moment wasps are not as prominent as they usually are at this time of year and our find a pest controller referral tool reflects that.”

“At the beginning of the season it all seemed very active, and members were reporting high numbers of queen wasps. However, over the summer the mix of wet and cooler weather has not been right for them, but it is likely they are out there and will now start to emerge shortly.”

“We know the wasps will be targeting sweeter items. This can include fruit on trees, as well as sugary drinks or confectionery, which is why wasps can be so disruptive when we eat and drink outdoors.”

Kevin added “A wasp can zoom in on a particular source of food and then go back up to a mile to its nest to alert others in the colony, so they return in numbers. This means they can become a real issue in no time at all.”

There are a range of methods to tackle wasp issues, but professional input should be sought to ensure treatment plans are both safe and effective.

Dee Ward-Thompson, BPCA Technical Manager said, “For householders looking to protect areas such as their gardens, or those responsible for environments such schools, restaurants, pubs and offices, a professional pest controller can help minimise wasp activity with a range of techniques.

“This service is also particularly useful for people who have allergies to stings and want to reduce their risk, as well as areas where young children and pets are present.”

Dee also points out that action should be taken where wasps nests are present in certain environments.

“The flight path of wasps can be studied to see if a nest is nearby and, if this is the case, extreme care should be taken to treat it.”

“The wasps inside the nest will feel threatened and often become aggressive, so it is strongly recommended that a BPCA member pest control company carries out the work. They will have the technical knowledge and access to a range of professional use insecticides which are not available to the public.”

To find a trusted pest management company to deal with a wasp problem you can use our find a pest controller tool.

For more information about wasps, head over to our A-Z of pests to get the latest.

Image of Common Wasp (Vespula Vulgaris) CC Jacopo Werther

Kevin Higgins
Membership Manager

1 September 2017  |  BPCA Bulletin

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