Wasps
Common Wasp (Vespula
vulgaris)
German Wasp (Vespula
germanica)
The Common and German Wasp are the two most common
wasps in the UK. They make their nests in the hollows of trees,
cavity walls and roof spaces. The threat they pose can be very
serious, especially if stung around the throat, or multiple
times, which can cause anaphylactic shock. Wasps can also carry
diseases in much the same way a fly does by collecting dead
and decaying animal material, as well as insects, to feed the
wasp larvae.
After hibernating over-winter the fertilised queen
wasp starts her nest building in spring, and lays between 10
to 20 eggs. Once through the larvae stage the new workers that
emerge continue with enlarging the nest and feeding the new
larvae. Workers prefer to feed on high energy materials such
as flower nectar and fruit, thus their passion for sweet substances
such as jam.
Nests reach their peak size in September and can
contain 3 to 5 thousand individuals. As the temperature drops
the surviving wasps become more aggressive, will enter kitchens
and bakeries etc. as they hunt out sweet substances. With the
onset of winter only the queens will survive.
Although sprays will kill foraging wasps it will
seldom solve the problem. The nest should be treated.
Wasps will defend their nest vigorously, they
are often located in high and or confined places, making control
very hazardous without proper protective clothing and equipment.
Before commencing any treatment you should contact us for advice on any wasp treatment.
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