Wasp nests may be in the roof spaces, air vents or eaves; the size gradually increases throughout the summer. A nest in the garden may well keep the garden free of other insect pests.
In late summer/autumn, a new hatch of young queens and males leave and the colony will die naturally in late autumn to December. If the nest or wasp activity is discovered at this time of year and it is not bothering you - leave it - it has been there since the spring. Old nests are never used by queens emerging from hibernation, they always start fresh ones.
If the wasp nest is not in a sensitive location, try and leave it where it is.
If the location of a wasp nest makes normal life difficult (for example, it is close to a door), it may be necessary to have the nest destroyed.
Control:
- We do not recommend tackling the problem yourself. This can be dangerous if you are unprotected.
- We would strongly recommend that you obtain our advice or that of a professional company.
Bees are not normally aggressive and will not normally sting unless interfered with or the nest is in danger.
Some species are protected and before any treatment, careful identification must be carried out.
Honey Bees swarm from May to mid-June and, though they look intimidating, will not harm you if left alone. The swarm is simply looking for a permanent site for the summer.
If a bee's nest is not in a sensitive location, try and leave it where it is.
If you have concerns, you should contact the Environmental Health department, or for a comprehensive guide, look at the International Bee Research Association website or the British Beekeepers Association website.
