Wasps and hornets can be more than just a nuisance; they pose a real risk to the safety and comfort of your home or business. Understanding the signs of a wasp or hornet infestation can help you take early action, preventing potential stings, structural damage, and even infestations that could endanger anyone who frequents your property. Here’s a guide to identifying the key signs of a wasp or hornet infestation and why it’s crucial to act quickly.
1. Frequent Sightings of Wasps or Hornets
The most obvious sign of an infestation is an increase in wasp or hornet sightings around your property. If you start noticing these insects more frequently, it could mean there’s a nest nearby. Wasps and hornets are particularly active during warmer months and tend to build nests in sheltered locations. While a single sighting might not be alarming, multiple wasps or hornets hovering around your property consistently over a few days is a red flag.
2. Increased Activity Near Eaves, Gutters, or Rooflines
If you notice wasps or hornets congregating around specific areas of your property, such as the eaves, gutters, soffits, or rooflines, it’s likely they’re either establishing a nest or foraging close to one. Wasps and hornets are resourceful when selecting nesting spots, often choosing areas that provide shelter and protection from the elements. Additionally, gutters and eaves offer access to nearby food sources, including insects and plants. If activity is concentrated around these structural elements, a closer inspection for a nest may be warranted.
3. Visible Nests
One of the most definitive signs of an infestation is the sight of an actual nest. Wasps and hornets build nests from wood pulp, which they chew into a paper-like material, and they typically position them in hidden or elevated areas. Depending on the species, nests may look different. For example:
- Wasp Nests: These are typically smaller, papery, and umbrella-shaped, with visible hexagonal cells.
- Hornet Nests: Hornets build larger nests that can be round or football-shaped, usually with smooth exteriors and a single entrance.
Common locations for nests include roof eaves, attic spaces, wall cavities, and outdoor structures like sheds. If you see a nest, it’s best not to approach it too closely. Wasps and hornets can become defensive if they sense a threat to their home, increasing the likelihood of aggressive behaviour.
4. Chewed Wood or Plant Material
Wasps, particularly certain species like paper wasps, often chew on wood and plant materials to create the pulp needed for nest-building. This can leave visible signs on wood fencing, garden furniture, window frames, or even the siding of your home. If you notice tiny, smooth, and consistent bite marks or patches where wood seems eroded or scraped, it could be a sign that wasps are actively collecting materials nearby. These markings are typically subtle but are a good indicator of wasp activity around your property.
5. Buzzing Sounds
Wasps and hornets are relatively noisy, especially if they’re present in large numbers. If you hear persistent buzzing sounds near a specific area, it could be due to an unseen nest. These insects often nest in enclosed areas like attics, walls, or sheds, where buzzing may be amplified. If you’re hearing a continuous hum, especially in walls or ceilings, it’s worth investigating further. While it’s natural to hear some buzzing from flying insects in the garden, constant sounds from within your home or property structure are a strong indication of a hidden infestation.
6. Aggressive Behaviour from Wasps or Hornets
Wasps and hornets tend to become more aggressive if they feel their nest is threatened. If you’re experiencing increased aggression, such as wasps or hornets flying directly towards you or chasing anyone who gets too close to a certain area, it’s likely they’re protecting a nearby nest. Hornets, in particular, can be highly defensive and deliver more potent stings than regular wasps, making them a serious threat if they become agitated. Aggressive behaviour from these insects is not typical unless there is a nest nearby, so take extra caution when moving around areas with frequent sightings.
7. Entry and Exit Patterns
Wasps and hornets have specific patterns of movement when they’re foraging or protecting a nest. If you observe these insects coming and going in a regular pattern from a particular area, such as a hole in an exterior wall, a crack in the siding, or gaps in roofing, there’s a strong chance they’ve established a nest within that structure. This behaviour is particularly noticeable during the day when wasps and hornets are most active. Tracking entry and exit points can provide valuable information on the location of a hidden nest, which is especially helpful if it’s inside a wall or under roof tiles.
8. Dead Wasps or Hornets Inside Your Property
Finding dead wasps or hornets indoors may be an indication of an internal nest, especially if they appear near windows, in attics, or around air vents. Dead insects inside could mean they’re entering through cracks or openings in the building while trying to access the outdoors. If you’re finding dead wasps or hornets regularly, it’s advisable to investigate these areas further or seek professional assistance to locate and remove the potential nest.
9. Damage to Insulation or Roofing Materials
In some cases, wasps and hornets may damage insulation or roofing materials while creating nests within attics or roof spaces. If you notice signs of insulation being disturbed, or if there’s visible damage to roofing felt, it could be due to nesting insects creating space for their colonies. Such damage may not be immediately visible, but over time, it can compromise your property’s structural integrity and insulation effectiveness. Regular inspections, especially if you’re already noticing wasp activity, can help identify this type of damage early on.
How to Handle a Wasp or Hornet Infestation
Recognising the signs of a wasp or hornet infestation is the first step towards protecting your property and maintaining a safe environment. Here are some immediate steps to take if you suspect an infestation:
- Avoid Disturbing the Nest: Wasps and hornets are more likely to sting when threatened. Avoid approaching nests closely or trying to handle them on your own.
- Seal Entry Points: If you’ve identified where wasps or hornets are entering your home, seal the gaps after ensuring that all insects have left the area. This can help prevent further infestations.
- Keep Food Sources Covered: Wasps are attracted to sugary foods, so keeping food sources covered and disposing of rubbish securely can help minimise the attraction.
When to Contact a Professional
If you’ve identified one or more signs of a wasp or hornet infestation, it’s advisable to contact a pest control professional like Peskey Solutions. Professionals have the expertise, equipment, and protective gear to safely remove nests, especially in hard-to-reach or sensitive areas. Attempting to remove a nest without the necessary experience can lead to aggressive behaviour from wasps or hornets, increasing the risk of stings.
