Wasps

Having problems with wasps?

Wasp control and wasp nest treatments across Oxfordshire and Berkshire. Wasps can be aggressive, especially in late summer, posing risks of painful stings and allergic reactions. Our trained technicians safely remove nests from homes, gardens, and businesses using professional treatments that eliminate wasps quickly and effectively. We handle common species like the European wasp and German wasp, ensuring complete eradication. If left untreated, wasp nests grow rapidly, increasing the risk of infestations. Our fast-response service ensures minimal disruption, keeping your property safe. Contact us today for expert wasp nest removal and prevention advice.

Additional Information

Characteristics

The queen wasp is larger than normal wasps (about 20mm) and she hibernates over winter, in the spring she starts making a nest in which to start laying her eggs. She feeds the young grubs on insects she catches until they develop into worker wasps. Her workers are all sterile females, which will forage for over a mile in search of food. At the end of the year, the adult worker wasps start to die off and the new queen wasps look for a warm place in which to hibernate for the winter and emerge in the spring to start the process again, building completely brand new nests. One
 nest may produce 30,000 wasps in a year.

Diet

Wasps are natural pest controllers and tend to eat other insects. However at their peak in the summer months, the workers turn to sweet food and they become a nuisance at BBQs, outdoor parties and bins.

Habitat

Wasps will generally build their nests in a safe area, this can be a loft or roof, wasp nests in your garden shed, inside an air brick vent or even wasp nests in the ground. Other Wasps build their nests in bushes, trees, and hedgerows. They can build their nests anywhere that they find suitable and where it is protected from the elements. The nest itself is built by using chewed wood and saliva to make a paper mulch material. The nest material is strong, lightweight and surprisingly waterproof, yet can just break apart in your hands.

Why control wasps?

One of the most feared summer pests, wasps will attack and sting, sometimes unprovoked. This is a risk and a cause for concern, if you have small children or pets as for some wasp stings, can lead to severe reactions, with a few people dying from wasp stings every year.

If you experience a high level of wasp activity at your premises, then get in touch with us.

Treating a wasp nest can be very dangerous. Wasps inside the nest will feel threatened and often become aggressive. This could cause them to sting you and others as they defend their nest and young.

To get rid of wasps you do ‘not’ need to remove the nest, but you do need to treat it. For treating a wasp nest make sure you call us at Shire Pest Solutions. 
We are fully trained professionals who have the technical knowledge and access to a range of professional-use insecticides which are not available to the public.

Even if you think your wasp’s nest is in an inaccessible height, we at Shire Pest Solutions will have the tools to reach and treat the wasp nest. After the treatment has worked no wasps should be seen flying, but as the young hatch out you may still get wasps walking around before the nest finally dies off. This is normal and should not need a revisit.


DO WASPS CARRY DISEASES?

Wasps, while not considered a significant public health risk, can present a nuisance, especially when their nests are found in or around homes and gardens, close to human habitation. They are not vectors of disease and do not carry infectious diseases.

However, children, the elderly, and those who suffer from anaphylactic shock are particularly vulnerable to wasp stings, which can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals.

Risks and Precautions

While wasps are not typically dangerous to the general population, it’s important to take precautions, particularly in areas where nests may be present. Stings from wasps can lead to painful reactions and may pose a greater risk to those with allergies.

If you discover a nest, it’s advisable to avoid disturbing it, as wasps can become aggressive if threatened. In case of a sting, seek medical attention if there are signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.

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Reach Us

Location :

4 Compton Close, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7HD

Email :

office@shire-pest-solutions.co.uk

Phone :

01235399073

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Wasps FAQ

1. When are wasps most active in the UK?

Wasps are typically most active from late spring through to early autumn. Nests are usually established in the warmer months, with activity peaking in mid to late summer.

2. Where do wasps build their nests?

Wasps commonly build nests in lofts, sheds, wall cavities, under eaves, and in bushes or trees. They look for sheltered, undisturbed areas with easy access to the outdoors.

3. Are wasp stings dangerous?

Wasp stings are painful and can cause swelling or allergic reactions. In some cases, multiple stings or severe allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires urgent medical attention.

4. Can I remove a wasp nest myself?

It is not recommended to remove a wasp nest without proper training and protective equipment. Disturbing a nest can provoke aggressive behaviour. Always contact a professional pest control service.

5. Do you provide wasp nest removal in my area?

Yes, Shire Pest Solutions provides safe and effective wasp nest removal across Didcot, Wallingford, Abingdon, Wantage, Witney, Newbury, Thame, Thatcham, and Stokenchurch. Contact us today to arrange a fast response call-out.


More About Shire Pest Solutions

Shire Pest Solutions is a trusted and local pest control company proudly serving homes and businesses across Oxfordshire and beyond. With a reputation built on professionalism, reliability, and fast response times, we specialise in the safe and effective removal of pests including ants, wasps, rodents, bed bugs, and more.

Our expert technicians are fully qualified and equipped with the latest tools and treatments to ensure pest problems are resolved quickly and safely—without unnecessary disruption. Whether it’s a minor domestic issue or a large-scale commercial infestation, we tailor our services to meet your needs with minimal fuss and maximum effectiveness.

Based locally, we regularly assist customers in Didcot, Wallingford, Abingdon, Wantage, Witney, Newbury, Thame, Thatcham, and Stokenchurch. Our knowledge of the local area enables us to provide rapid call-outs and treatments that are suited to the unique pest challenges of each location.

At Shire Pest Solutions, we don’t just eliminate pests—we help prevent them from returning. With transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and a dedication to customer satisfaction, we are the go-to pest control provider for homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients alike.

Get in touch today to arrange a call-out or learn more about our pest control services across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas.