From late spring, queen wasps start building nests in lofts, eaves, sheds, hedges and holes in the ground. By late summer a single nest can hold thousands of wasps. Here’s what to do if you find one.
How to spot a nest
Watch for a steady stream of wasps flying in and out of the same spot – a gap in the eaves, an air brick, a hole in the lawn or a shed corner. In lofts, you may be able to see a papery, grey, football-shaped nest.
Stay safe
- Keep children and pets away from the entrance
- Keep nearby windows closed
- Don’t swat at wasps near the nest – they release a chemical that alerts the others
- If you’re allergic to stings, don’t go near it at all
What not to do
- Don’t block the entrance – wasps will chew another way out, sometimes into your house
- Don’t pour water or petrol into it – it’s dangerous and rarely works
- Don’t knock it down – you’ll be stung by a lot of very angry wasps
Is it wasps or bees?
Bees are important pollinators and are usually left alone. Wasps are bright yellow and black with a narrow waist; honey bees are browner and hairier; bumblebees are large and fluffy. If you’re not sure, send us a photo.
When to call a professional
If the nest is near a door, window, path or play area, or you can’t reach it safely, call a professional. Treatment is quick, and activity usually drops within a few hours.
Need help?
We offer same or next day wasp nest removal across Edinburgh and Fife.