How do I find a European wasp nest?
Watch where the wasps fly in a straight line at dusk or early morning. Nests are often in the ground (a small hole with wasps flying in and out), in wall cavities, retaining walls or roof voids. Do not block the entrance or pour liquids into it. Keep a safe distance and call a professional to treat it.
Signs you have wasps
- Wasps flying in and out of a single hole in the ground or a wall
- Wasps around bins, barbecues, pet bowls and outdoor dining
- Papery umbrella-shaped nests under eaves and pergolas (paper wasps)
- Wasps inside the house coming from a light fitting or vent
- A buzzing sound coming from inside a wall or ceiling
Why you should not remove a wasp nest yourself
European wasps can sting many times and release an alarm signal that brings the rest of the nest out to defend it. Blocking a nest entrance in a wall can push wasps inside the house. Professional treatment with protective gear and the right products kills the nest with far less risk to you, your family and neighbours.
How Pestor treats wasps
Locate
We track the wasps back to the nest, which may be in the ground, a wall, a roof void or a tree.
Treat
The nest is treated directly using protective equipment, usually at a time when most wasps are inside.
Remove
Accessible nests are removed once the treatment has worked.
Advise
We tell you how long to keep away from the area and how to reduce wasps next season.
Before we treat a wasp nest
- Keep children and pets indoors and away from the nest
- Do not block, spray or pour anything into the nest entrance
- Note where you have seen wasps coming and going
- Tell us if anyone in the household is allergic to stings
Prevention tips
- Cover food and drinks outdoors and use cups with lids or straws
- Keep bin lids closed and clean up barbecue scraps
- Do not leave pet food outside
- Pick up fallen fruit
- Check for small nests in spring, when they are easiest to deal with
Common species in Melbourne
| Name | Scientific name | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| European wasp | Vespula germanica | Bright yellow and black with yellow legs. Introduced pest, aggressive near its nest. |
| Paper wasp | Polistes spp. | Long, thin and brown or yellow. Builds small open nests under eaves and in shrubs. |
FAQs about wasps
Do you remove bees too?
Honey bee swarms are important pollinators. Where a swarm can be safely collected we refer you to a local beekeeper rather than destroying it. If bees have established inside a wall and cannot be removed, talk to us about options.
How quickly can you treat a wasp nest?
Wasp nests are a priority call. Call us and we will give you the earliest available time.
What should I do if I am stung?
Wash the area and apply a cold pack. Call 000 immediately if there are signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Will the wasps come back?
Once a nest is treated, that colony dies. New queens can start nests in following seasons, so checking in spring helps catch them early.