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Wasp Identification
Unwelcome creatures in the home, wasps, especially yellow jackets and the fearsome hornets, are distinguished by their moderate size, ranging between 10 and 25 mm. Their visual signature, black and yellow, sometimes white, bands, adorns their abdomen. While some wasp species are harmless, others, such as the German wasp, living in colonies, are more common and dangerous, unfortunately known for their aggressiveness.
Effects of Wasps
In an almost artistic yet dangerous manner, wasps can inject painful venom via a hollow stinger. They are particularly threatening at outdoor public events and gatherings, attracted by the scents of sweet and protein-rich food sources. Although repeated stings are possible, and these sometimes lead to severe allergic reactions, their indispensable ecological role, particularly in capturing harmful insects and pollinating, should not be overlooked.
Wasp Prevention
At the beginning of summer, a thorough inspection of your property for any nests under construction is a good idea. To discourage their visit, avoid displaying moist or sugary food. Also, opt for airtight containers for garbage. Wasp traps can be effective, especially when baited with protein bait rather than sugar bait to avoid attracting bees. These types of traps can prevent a nest from establishing itself on your property and thus aid in prevention.
Wasp Nest Removal
For a non-threatening nest, patience is a virtue; it is often best to leave it in place until winter. For an active nest, removal should be approached cautiously, or even entrusted to a professional. A safe method is to wrap the nest in a plastic bag and freeze it for 48 hours to kill the wasps. The use of protective clothing and a head net is strongly recommended.
Use of Chemicals
Applying insecticides, such as wasp spray, powder, or specific poison, is common practice. It is essential to ensure these products are approved by Health Canada and to follow the instructions carefully. Spraying is best done in the evening, when wasps are less active and inside the nest, and be careful not to shine direct light on the nest.
Conclusion
Wasp control requires a balanced strategy of prevention, physical intervention, and the judicious use of chemicals. Our wasp traps and insecticides are available in our online store. However, it's important to consider the ecological impact of wasps and prioritize environmentally friendly control methods.