Why Do You Start Seeing Queen Wasps in Your Premises at This Time of Year?
Seeing large wasps appearing inside homes and businesses as the seasons change. These wasps are likely queens, searching for nesting sites. Understanding their behaviour helps prevent infestations and ensures a wasp-free environment.
The Life Cycle of Queen Wasps
Queen wasps follow a predictable cycle. Recognising their seasonal patterns helps with early intervention.
- Summer: A colony thrives, with worker wasps maintaining the nest while the queen lays eggs.
- Late summer and early autumn: New queens and male drones leave the nest to mate.
- Autumn and early winter: Newly mated queens search for warm, sheltered hibernation spots.
- Spring: Rising temperatures wake hibernating queens, prompting their search for new nesting sites.
Why Are Queen Wasps Appearing Now?
1. Emerging from Hibernation
Queen wasps hibernate in sheltered areas such as lofts, garages, sheds, and wall cavities. Warmer weather triggers their emergence as they seek new nesting locations.
2. Indoor Conditions Confusing Their Cycle
Central heating can cause premature awakening. When this happens, queens fly indoors, disoriented and sluggish.
3. Searching for Nesting Sites
After waking, queen wasps scout for suitable nesting spots. Attics, roof spaces, and undisturbed corners make appealing locations.
4. Accidental Entry
Queens often enter through open windows or doors while exploring. Once inside, they may struggle to escape.
How to Prevent Queen Wasps from Settling in Your Property
1. Seal Entry Points
Check for gaps around windows, doors, vents, and roof spaces. Seal these areas to prevent wasp entry.
2. Inspect Hibernation Spots
Attics, sheds, and garages often harbour hibernating queens. Check these areas and remove inactive wasps before they wake.
3. Use Wasp Deterrents
Peppermint oil, citronella, and clove act as natural wasp repellents. Place them around doors and windows to deter wasps.
4. Keep Food and Waste Secure
Wasps seek food sources, particularly sugary substances. Store food properly and keep bins sealed.
5. Call a Professional
If a queen wasp has started building a nest, professional pest control ensures safe and effective removal.
Need Help with Wasp Problems?
If you’re in Didcot or Wallingford and need assistance, visit Shire Pest Solutions Didcot or Shire Pest Solutions Wallingford for expert wasp control.
Final Thoughts
Queen wasps appearing inside homes and businesses during early spring is normal. However, early action prevents nests from forming. Understanding their behaviour and taking simple precautions keeps your premises wasp-free.