While wasps are generally beneficial insects that prey on other insects, they can become a nuisance when they build nests around homes or areas with high human traffic. This article offers tips and strategies for wasp management using traps, repellents, and other highly effective methods. Our expertise in pest control is backed by our adherence to the New Zealand Certificate in Pest Operation and Structural Pest Control, ensuring reliable and professional service.
The simplest way to avoid unpleasant encounters with wasps is through prevention. Staying away from their nests is crucial, as disturbing them can lead to defensive behaviour. While insecticides can effectively handle wasps, they pose environmental risks and can be hazardous if not used carefully. Therefore, we recommend exploring less risky wasp management techniques before resorting to pesticides.
A single buzzing wasp inside your home can be bothersome, but frequent sightings may indicate a nest indoors. In such cases, prompt treatment is essential. The most accessible approach is to locate and seal off their access points. Thoroughly inspect your home for open dampers, cracks in window and door frames, torn screens, and closed vents. Observing the flight route of the wasps, particularly in the morning, can help you identify their entry point.
During the early spring and summer, protein-based foods attract wasps. Therefore, removing or covering items such as:
Wasps can remember food sources and may continue searching in the area. In late summer and early autumn, wasps shift their preference to sweet foods and become more aggressive. Be cautious with open cans of fruit juice, soda, and fallen fruit under trees, as they attract wasps. Cover containers holding food and beverages, and avoid walking barefoot under fruit trees to prevent unwanted encounters.
Squashing or swatting a wasp is not recommended, as it releases a chemical pheromone that attracts and agitates other wasps nearby. If you come across a buzzing wasp, it is best to calmly leave the area without engaging with the insect.
Avoid wearing floral designs and bright colours, as they attract wasps in their search for nectar. Additionally, refrain from using perfumes or strongly scented products, especially during the latter part of summer, as sweet smells can lure wasps towards you.
Wasp repellents or deodorants contain ingredients that deter wasps from approaching. Choose products that utilise natural ingredients, making them safe for everyone. These repellents are effective for approximately 5-8 hours and are sweat-resistant.
Resolving this common issue is possible if wasps use your birdhouse to build nests. Secure the area beneath the roof with aluminium foil using a staple gun. Alternatively, rubbing bar soap under the roof can also deter wasps. These methods provide long-lasting protection throughout the wasp season.
Setting up wasp traps in early spring can be highly effective when the number of wasps is limited. Trapping the queen wasps during this time can prevent the emergence of thousands of worker wasps later in the season. You can either purchase pre-made wasp traps or create your own.
Cut the top part of a 2-litre plastic bottle at the shoulder. After that, Fill the lower half with water and discard the screw top. And then, secure the inverted top half in place using tape. Next, coat the bottle’s neck with jam and place it back into the container. Finally, wasps are drawn to the enticing aroma of the hole, lured down the neck of the bottle, and ultimately meet their fate as they drown in the water.
Managing wasps effectively involves a combination of preventive measures, repellents, traps, and careful actions to minimise interactions. By following these strategies, you can reduce the nuisance caused by wasps while ensuring the safety of humans and the environment. Indeed, for reliable wasp control services in North Shore, South Auckland City, East, and West, contact Wasp Management Control Auckland Services at 0800 199 399 or via email.
Graeme Stephens, a seasoned expert with over 36 years of experience in Auckland’s disinfecting, cleaning, and pest control services, has authored this article. Indeed, Graeme holds the prestigious title of IICRC Master Restoration Technician, earned in 2001.
Last Updated: June 22, 2023
