Summertime Is Wasp Time: Understanding Their Role and Managing Encounters
As the warm months roll in, wasps make their presence known, buzzing around in search of food. Depending on the region and weather, these yellow-black insects become more or less active during summer. Wasps primarily feed on sugary substances from nature, such as nectar, pollen, plant juices, or fruit. However, when it comes to their larvae, wasps prefer protein-rich food. Eva Goris from the German Wildlife Foundation in Hamburg explains that the first larvae hatch as early as June and are quite hungry.
Wasps as Effective Biological Pest Controllers
“The larvae require ‘power food,’ which consists of protein-rich insects,” says Goris. Wasps play a crucial role in the ecosystem by bringing aphids, mosquitoes, flies, and spiders to their nests as food for their young. This natural behavior makes wasps effective biological pest controllers, advocating for more tolerance towards these insects, especially since their life cycle ends in the fall.
Late Summer: Peak Human-Wasp Conflict
In Germany, only two of the several hundred native wasp species typically conflict with humans: the German wasp (Vespula germanica) and the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris). These wasps belong to the short-headed category, forming larger colonies and having longer development cycles than most other species. As a result, they must continue feeding numerous larvae in late summer when natural food supplies dwindle. This drives wasps to seek human food, particularly sugary and meaty items, resulting in peak conflicts from early August to late September.
How to React to Wasp Encounters
When wasps approach, Eva Goris recommends some basic guidelines: avoid swatting or making frantic movements. Additionally, blowing at wasps is discouraged, as they react panically to the carbon dioxide in our breath. It’s also best not to squash wasps, as even dead ones can sting. Wasps are a protected species, and extra caution should be taken by allergy sufferers due to the potential health risks of stings.
Mechanical Means: The Most Effective Defense Against Wasps
While it’s important to defend yourself against wasps, NABU expert Dr. Melanie von Orlow emphasizes showing wasps their limits to prevent them from seeing your food as easy prey. Gently push them away using your hand or a suitable object, or cover your food to deter them. Placing wasps under glasses or cups is another option, allowing you to release them after eating. These measures also help prevent wasps from signaling their nest mates about a new food source. Mechanical defense methods, such as spraying water to drive them away, are the most effective. In contrast, there’s no scientific evidence supporting household remedies like deterrent aromas or wasp nest dummies.
Protecting Your Space from Wasps
If you’re particularly concerned about wasps, insect nets can cover balconies or windows, advises von Orlow. If a wasp nest is nearby, consider contacting a professional pest control company. However, be cautious of scammers, as some charge exorbitant fees for amateurish nest removals. Always ensure you’re hiring a reputable service provider.
