With summer only a few months away, it’s almost time for an array of our least favourite critters to start buzzing and crawling around in our homes and gardens. While the appearance of insects in your space isn’t always a bad thing, there are a few that can be harmful if left to their own devices.
One of the more common pest problems Australian homeowners need to deal with is arranging a wasp nest removal as naturally as possible. If your summer involves dodging wasps, then this article is a must-read.
All Things Wasp
Many people have a deep-seated fear of wasps. This can be due to a previous sting, an allergy, or simply the fact that they can sting multiple times. Not only are they more aggressive than bees, but they will also protect their nests more fiercely.
With all this in mind, our experts have compiled a list of essential factors that will help you understand wasp behaviour. We’ll also share a few tips on how best to deal with them and their stings.
- Know the Difference Between a Wasp and a Bee
You may think a bee and a wasp are essentially the same thing, with one stinging only once and the other several times. However, they are different creatures and it’s essential to know the difference since dealing with them requires different techniques.
The easiest way to tell a wasp apart from a bee is by looking at them. Typically, wasps are longer and slimmer than bees who tend to be chubbier. While bees are yellow and black, wasps can vary in colour, depending on their species. The most common wasp species found in Australia are yellow and black, brown or rust-coloured.
Bees are hairy, but wasps aren’t. Wasps also don’t swarm or fly around in groups like bees do. It’s not uncommon to be stung by many bees at once, but this very rarely happens with wasps. Rather, a single wasp can sting you multiple times since it can remove its stinger from your skin without hurting itself.
- What’s the Best Way to Deal With a Wasp Nest
Everyone who has ever had a wasp nest on their property has their own idea of the best way to eliminate these nasty critters. However, if you have never successfully removed a wasp nest, it’s always recommended that you enlist a pest controller to do it for you. In many instances, the nest can be relocated to a safer place.
- Use a Natural Method to Prevent Wasps From Moving in
If you’ve seen a wasp or two flying around in your garden or near one of your doors, it’s a clear indication of a nest not too far away. One of the most common places to find wasp nests is in the corner of a patio or doorway.
Many people use a natural spray to keep the wasps from creating nests in high-traffic areas. Using a natural spray ensures you and your family aren’t exposed to harmful chemicals.
Simply follow these easy steps to make your own anti-wasp spray:
- Step 1: You’ll need 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of peppermint oil because peppermint is a natural insect deterrent.
- Step 2: Mix the water and peppermint oil and pour into a small spray bottle.
- Step 3: Shake the mixture well.
- Step 4: Spray the doorways, window frames, and other areas where you have seen the wasp.
- Step 5: If you’re spraying near an area where a nest has already been made, wear long sleeves and stand as far as possible from the nest. Don’t spray directly at the nest as this will aggravate the wasps inside.
- Step 6: Spray the area near the nest as close to dusk or at night time when wasps are inside the nest. This will ensure that they experience the full scent of the peppermint solution, making them more likely to leave on their own.
In addition to making a natural spray, our experts recommend patching up holes, crevices, and cracks in your exterior walls to prevent wasps from making nests. You’ll also want to break down any deserted or empty nests, as wasps have been known to return to empty nests.
- Always be Cautious
It’s important to teach your children to be cautious about wasps and not to poke their nests with sticks or throw stones at them. If anyone in your home has a bee or wasp allergy, keeping the necessary medication in your home first-aid kit is essential.
If someone gets stung, try to take a photo of the wasp. This will help your doctor apply the right medication, if necessary.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve seen a wasp nest forming close to your home or near one of your entryways, it’s always a good idea to call a professional. This is especially necessary if anyone in your family has a bee or wasp allergy. Having a skilled pest controller remove the nest will ensure it’s done safely and effectively.
