DRE PEST CONTROL BLOG

Where do wasps build their nests?

02/7/2018

During the summer months wasps are very busy building nests, breeding and feeding. The majority of wasps build their nests above ground; however, some wasps choose to build their nests underground or in cavities.

 

All wasps prefer to build their nests: 

 

• somewhere they can find shelter from rain and dampness;
• in dark, dry and secluded places;
• away from disruption.

There are a few things you can do to deter wasps from building a wasp nest in or near your property:

1. Check your loft for small holes and gaps as this is the most common way wasps gain entry to loft spaces – seal these holes and use insect mesh to cover air bricks and soffits.
2. Adding light to small places where you may have had nests previously is an effective way to discourage future nest building as wasps do not like light.
3. Inspect areas frequently. Wasps constantly build their nests throughout the spring and summer so make sure you check your must vulnerable areas often.

A wasp nest is easily recognised. External nests built by yellowjackets, hornets and paper wasps are usually balloon or umbrella-shaped with an entrance/exit hole at the bottom. Inside the nest are stacked combs that contain cells for the queen to lay her eggs in. These are surrounded by a protective layer of a papery substance constructed and added on by worker wasps.