In case you haven’t noticed, the weather is starting to show signs that fall is indeed here. Something else you may have noticed is the change in the behavior of the wasps around you. When fall arrives, there are several reasons that wasps are more than likely going to seem more aggressive than they have in the past few months. Stewart Termite & Pest Control is here to talk about the reason for this aggressive behavior.
Why are Wasps So Aggressive Right Now?
When those leaves start to change, it seems the rest of the world is changing as well. This includes wasps. Here are the reasons you will see them become more aggressive as we move into fall.
– Protecting the Queen: The Queen of the colony will be the only wasp to likely survive the winter. It will be her job to get a new nest and colony started in the spring. This leaves wasps in her colony extremely protective of her this fall. They will become increasingly aggressive if they feel that she is threatened in any way. You should avoid a wasp nest at all costs during the fall for this reason.
– Wasp Colony Size: The queen has been working all summer to get her colony and nest built up. A normal wasp nest can have up to 1,000 wasps in it by the fall arrives. You will see them become more aggressive because there are so many of them that the nests are splitting at the seams.
– Food Shortage for Wasps: As the queen lays and fertilizes eggs all summer, the larvae will be fed by the adult wasps. They will get insects as their main source of food. During this process, the larvae will produce a sweet nectar that the adult wasps feed off of. As the eggs stop being laid by the queen, this never ending supply of nectar will also stop. This leaves wasps looking for food sources elsewhere. If you are enjoying a delicious BBQ, they will more than likely be hovering more than normal. They are more aggressive as they are extremely hungry.
– Wasps & Weather: Wasps can feel the change in the air just like you can. They will start looking for a warm place to hide out during the winter. Your home makes the ideal place for them to get the warmth they need. This is also the time of year that many people have doors and windows opened to let the fresh air in. Make sure you have screens as these aggressive pests will be looking for a way in.
Stinging Insect Control
If you notice wasps on your property, you can call on Stewart Termite & Pest Control to help you get rid of the nest safely. It is important that you avoid attempting to remove the nest on your own as these wasps are more aggressive than ever right now. Call us today!