North Hampshire/Surrey

Paul Sweet
Mob: 07810 688 620

South West Hampshire

Philip Tarrant
Mob: 07702 085 605

Posted on: 2024-10-21
Author: Paul Sweet
Are old wasp nests dangerous

Are Your Old Wasp Nests a Hidden Danger? Find Out Now!

As summer rolls around and outdoor activities become more frequent, the sight of old wasp nests may raise concerns for homeowners. Questions such as "Are these nests a danger to my family and pets?" and "Should I take action?" often arise. Understanding wasp behaviour is key to answering these concerns. So, let's delve into the truth about old wasp nests and determine whether they are indeed a hidden danger.

Wasp Nest Behavior: The Basics

To understand the risks associated with old wasp nests, it's essential to first explore wasp behaviour. Contrary to popular belief, wasps do not return to old nests. This fact might come as a surprise to many. Still, homeowners must recognize this behaviour when evaluating potential threats.

New Beginnings Every Year

Every spring, wasp queens emerge from hibernation and set out to establish new colonies. They search for suitable locations, often choosing sheltered areas such as eaves, attics, or hidden spots in gardens to construct their nests. These nests are crafted from a papery substance made from chewed wood fibres mixed with saliva. Once a queen finds an appropriate spot, she will build a new nest to raise her brood.

Do Wasps Reuse Old Nests?

While wasps do not return to old nests, some nuances are worth mentioning. Occasionally, a new queen may build her nest alongside an old one, but this occurrence is quite rare. In such cases, the old nest serves more as a landmark rather than a functional structure. The new colony will typically establish its nest nearby rather than reuse the old nest.

The Entry Point Mystery

In some situations, wasps may use the same entry point on a building as a previous nest did. This behaviour can lead to confusion and concern, as it might appear that they are returning to an old nest. However, they do not inhabit the old structure; they take advantage of an existing entry point. Understanding this distinction is vital for addressing concerns regarding old nests.

What to Do About Old Wasp Nests

If you discover old wasp nests on your property, it's essential to assess the situation carefully. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Observe and Assess

Before taking any action, observe the nests from a safe distance. If you notice signs of activity, such as wasps flying in and out of the nest, this could indicate that the nest is, in fact, not old but a new, active one.

2. Consider Removal

If you determine that the old nest poses a potential risk, consider removing it. However, caution is paramount:

  • If it is determined that the nest is old and unused, you can remove the nest by simply pulling it down into a bin bag. The nest will come off very easily and crumble. It is best practice to try and get a bin bag around as much of the nest as possible before trying to pull the nest away from where it is attached.
  • Hire Professionals: If the nest is live, it's best to contact a pest control professional. They have the expertise and tools to safely treat nests.

3. Prevent Future Nests

Taking preventive measures can help keep your property free from new wasp colonies:

  • Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps where wasps might enter. Sealing these openings can significantly reduce the likelihood of new nests being established.
  • Maintain Cleanliness: Keeping outdoor dining areas clean and free of food debris can deter wasps, as they are attracted to sugary substances and protein-rich foods.

While old wasp nests may seem concerning, they are typically not dangerous. By understanding wasp behaviour and taking proactive measures, you can protect your home and enjoy your outdoor spaces without worry.

If you ever feel uncertain or unsafe about handling wasps, it's always best to consult a professional pest control service. Stay safe and enjoy your summer without the fear of wasps buzzing around!

Our fee for treating a Wasp or Hornet nest is a straight forward £65.00. This cost includes all the expenses associated with the treatment, such as callouts, climbing ladders, working in lofts, and any essential treatments. There are no hidden costs, and we want to ensure that you know exactly what you will be paying for our services.

If you've discovered additional nests on your property, we can treat them during the same visit for an extra £15.00 per nest. This offer is only applicable if treated at the time of the original callout. So, if you have multiple nests on your property, call us, and we can discuss a fixed price to handle all the nests in a single visit.

We are certified and fully insured professionals, and all our work comes with a guarantee. Payment is due upon completing the job, and please note that we do not accept bank transfers. Additionally, no value-added tax (VAT) is applied to our charges.

Please ensure that you have correctly identified the species of flying insect causing concern before contacting us. If you are not certain, you can send us a clear photo, and we will be happy to assist in identifying the issue. Alternatively, you can call us, and we will discuss the problem and provide advice.

We strongly advise against using proprietary products you may have purchased to treat the nest, as this action can often lead to disastrous consequences. If you decide to embark upon this often hazardous endeavor, please do not call us to sort out the frequently dangerous aftermath.

Please do not contact us for any issues related to bees, as we do not provide treatment for any bee species.

When you book our services, we will assign you an approximate morning or afternoon time slot. We promise to be there as scheduled and kindly request that you be present at home to ensure a smooth process.

For safety reasons, we recommend keeping children and pets indoors and closing windows and doors during and for several hours after treatment. Please keep in mind that we work weekends, so if you discover a nest in your garden during the weekend (Saturday or Sunday), give us a call, and we will make every effort to respond to your situation as soon as possible.

×