It's important to know the dos and don'ts when finding a wasp nest, but keep in mind every situation varies. Wasp nests are not uncommon to find in populated areas around homes. Depending on the species of wasp, there could be hundreds in a nest which are made from a range of materials from mud to hollowed-out tree cavities. Wise decisions will work to keep you and your family safe during encounters with wasps.

Here is What to Avoid After Discovering a Wasp Nest

1) Safety is first and foremost during any encounter with wasps. They can inflict a lot of harm when they feel threatened, so do not approach the nest. It's vital to take caution and not confine them. Anything that increases their activity level will increase the risk. They will remain close to the area as they swarm and being in the proximity when that's happening is going to be a risk for multiple stings.

2) We understand that sometimes wasps will build their nests in the most inconvenient spaces. It's not uncommon to find them under porch railings under decks and in garden beds. If you happen upon a nest do not knock it down as tempting as it may be. When a nest is knocked over or knocked down, the wasps will see it as a sign to attack and defend their space while leaving the nest in a hurry.

3) Do not attempt to remove it yourself. DIY removal is not recommended as it can result in serious injury, especially to those affected by allergic reactions to stings. DIY methods for removing wasp nests, such as gasoline or homemade traps, are often ineffective and hazardous. Improper use of chemicals can harm the environment and pose risks to human health.

4) Never underestimate the risk of injury that can occur when wasps are disturbed or the numbers that may emerge. A large amount of wasps can be within even the smallest nests. They often stay in the cavities they build to lay eggs until agitated. Where there is one wasp there are likely more even if they aren't immediately visible. Some nests can contain hundreds or more.

Steps to Help You Safely Deal With a Wasp Nest

1) Upon discovering a wasp nest, it's crucial to remain calm and avoid sudden movements. If you begin to poke at or start swatting at them it will only agitate them further. Remember, once they get stirred up and swarm they usually won't retreat for several hours, making it vital to completely avoid the surrounding area.

2) Maintain a safe distance from the nest to avoid provoking the wasps. Crowding into the area and disturbing the nest unnecessarily can lead to defensive behavior from the colony. Distance will be your best and immediate safety measure, and depending on the severity, you may choose to go indoors until the nest is managed.

3) Make certain the nest is removed entirely and not partially. When wasps form a nest it can be quite extensive. You may not even see the entire nest since they can sometimes be partially hidden in structures or underground. To ensure a full removal it is best left to an experienced pest service that has the proper equipment and knows how to safely and thoroughly handle it.

4) Immediately contact the professionals. When determining how to deal with a wasp nest on your property, it is important to understand that nests and wasps are most effectively handled by the pros. Relying on professional expertise is the best way to remove a wasp nest without getting stung or causing property damage.

Contact Your Trusted Local Pest Experts

The best course of action is to contact a pest control professional for safe removal. Attempting to remove a large nest without proper equipment and expertise can be extremely dangerous. Eagle Pest Services makes it easy to get started so you can rest assured that your home or business is protected. Contact us today at 1-(866) 281-1822 or schedule an inspection online.