Wasps and Bees
œWasps become very aggressive during the months from August to October and may attack humans if not professionally treated. Honey bees are environmentally friendly and are vital as pollinators.
Overview
Pest biology
Although similar in size to bees, wasps are distinctive by their narrow waist and bright yellow and black banding. Nests are formed each year by queen wasps/bees. Wasps will build a new nest each year and depending on weather nest can be found in late spring/early summer. By the end of the year, there are many thousands in a nest.
Problems they cause
Wasps are aggressive and may sting when disturbed. This is painful and may cause redness/swelling. Their nests can block chimneys and flus and in exceptional circumstances, chew through plaster board ceilings.
What you can do to help
If you are living near a nest that is not bothering you it is best to leave it alone.
Commercial Control Methods
We will apply an insecticidal spray/dust directly to the nest or nest entrance. The insect will collect the insecticide on their body and transfer to the inside of the nest and feed the young. Over a period of 24hrs most adults are killed and the whole nest is dead within approximately 48hrs. Generally the nest is not removed but remains redundant as it will not be reused the following year.
We have a moral obligation to ONLY destroy bees if absolutely necessary. Therefore MITIE initially advises that a client wishing to control bees contact the local bee keeper. Some bee keepers will even pay to come and take these away to restock their commercial hives.
