FAST FACTS – WASPS
A wasp can fly faster than a running human! If you try and swat a wasp, it will emit a pheromone which will attract other wasps. Only female wasps can sting and it is used as a way of defence. They can sting multiple times, unlike a bee that can only sting once. The two main species of wasp in the UK are Vespula vulgaris and Vespula germanica. The Queen wasps come out of hibernation, usually in early April to commence nest building. When the first batch of eggs hatch out and pupate into wasps, these will then support the Queen by bringing back food and continuing the nest building, allowing...
Read MoreWASPS AND HONEY BEES
As the summer period progresses and autumn rapidly approaches, wasps can become more of a problem, not only to humans, but to the general bee population as well. There are six species of wasp in the United Kingdom that could cause serious problems for bees and these include the common wasp, the German wasp and the European hornet. Their respective nests can be found in trees, shrubs, hedges, underground and in many cases human properties! This year, so far, has seen a dramatic increase in the number of nests found in general houses, outbuildings, such as sheds or garages and even in...
Read MoreWASPS ARE VERY CLEVER!
The wasp season is certainly upon us and it is VERY busy! When selecting a nest site, the queen wasp can be very inventive and take advantage of whatever locations take her fancy. It might be where she has been hibernating over the winter in a cosy shed. Where there is plenty of room to expand in a dry environment, perfect for producing more wasps. Outside may be a better option, how about under the eaves of a house ? Or maybe putting a wasp nest in a shrub in the garden? Or how about building inside a hedge?...
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