Sugar-seeking wasps spark safety message

British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging families and businesses to act now before sting incidents become more likely in late August and early September.

It has published an online Worried About Wasps guide, with a short video, to help prevent problems with the pests.

Technical officer at BPCA, Natalie Bungay, said: “Homes and businesses can be affected by a wasp outbreak, particularly as people head outside for the summer season.

“Towards late August and going into September is the time when we can start to see drunken wasps, desperate for a sugar fix.

“This happens when the queen stops producing eggs and the workforce has nothing to do other than look for fermented fruits and sugars.

“Wasps quickly get inebriated and this is typically when you can expect them to be more aggressive and likely to sting.”

BPCA's ‘Worried About Wasps’ guide, gives an overview of the biology, behaviour, prevention and control of the pests. It is free to download at  bpca.org.uk/wasps where there is also a short video.

Natalie added: “If snacks are eaten outdoors then food and drinks, as well as the natural environment all, provide an attractive place for wasps to thrive.

 “Our advice is to encourage homes and businesses to dispose of rubbish properly, especially food with a high sugar content. It should be securely contained in a bag and disposed of in a clean container.”