Wasps

Wasps are a diverse group of insects. In Australia alone there are over 12,000 species, ranging from the tiny priid wasps, which are barely visible to the naked eye, to the spider and cicada-killer wasps, capable of taking large prey. Most wasps have carnivorous larvae that feed on other insects and spiders. The adults provide food for them by capturing prey or by laying the egg on or near the food source, which might be an egg, larva or pupa of another insect.  

Wasp are similar to bees in size (slightly longer and thinner). They are more aggressive than bees and can sting many times, unlike a bee. There have been several reported wasp fatalities in NSW and Queensland. It is essential, therefore, that, if wasps are located, a professional pest technician be called out immediately. (Why risk your life attempting to treat the wasps yourself in an endeavour to save $150 odd dollars?)    

There are 2 main species of wasps representing a pest to Australians.

1. The Paper Wasp  

The paper wasps set up nests, which resemble a honeycombed mini umbrella. They usually nest in protected areas around window sills, under eaves, anywhere away from the direct forces af Mother Nature. If disturbed, paper wasps can attack in large numbers, and attack repeatedly.

2. The European Wasp

The European Wasps are very aggressive. The nest can number in the 10's of thousands. They often nest underground. Like the Paper wasp, European wasps can and do sting repeatedly. The venom of the European Wasp contains several toxins which can cause an allergic reaction to some people. Studies have shown a very high percentage of people stung more than once, become allergic to wasp venom. The greatest risk to these people is being stung in the back of the throat or the mouth. The soft tissue in these areas immediately swells, causing breathing difficulties. As previously mentioned, fatalaties from European wasps have occurred in NSW. 

If a wasp nest is located, do not panic. Bring the family and pets inside the home, close all windows and doors and phone the professionals at Central Pest Control. Often we locate several nests around the property. We will treat and remove these nests at a very reasonable price. Please do not attempt to treat wasps yourself. We know of people attempting to treat wasps themselves, using some 'pretty out there' methods. (Spraying wasps with Mr Sheen, trying to smoke wasps away with burning incense, pouring petrol over wasp nests, yelling at them through a loud speaker....the list goes on).