26/09/2012
Summary
The European wasp can sting repeatedly and the stings are very painful. A European wasp sting causes burning pain, a raised lump, redness and local inflammation. Repeated stings may trigger an allergy, including life-threatening anaphylaxis. A European wasp looks similar to a bee and is around 15mm to 20mm in length with a bright yellow body. This insect likes to live around humans because of the ready supply of food and drink, especially sweet foods and drinks.
How to locate the nest
It is strongly recommended that you hire experts to destroy any wasp nests on your property. This is particularly important if you have experienced an allergic reaction to a wasp sting in the past or if you have never been stung and are unsure of your allergy status to wasp venom.
It may help to locate the nest before you call your local council or pest controllers, since the nest may not be on your property. Suggestions on how to locate the nest include: The European wasp may forage for food up to half a kilometre away from its nest. You might need to seek the cooperation of your neighbours.
Place food (preferably meat) in a visible outdoor location.
Once it has located the food source, the wasp will fly virtually in a straight line back to its nest.
If necessary, keep relocating the food source until you see the wasp fly into its nest.
Nests are usually built in sheltered locations.
Typical nest locations can include under the ground and within retaining walls, tree hollows and holes in walls.
The nest looks like it’s made of grey papier-mache.
Things to remember
Unlike a bee, which can only sting once, the European wasp can sting repeatedly.
Around one in 10 people who are stung two or more times become allergic, which means they will experience severe reactions to any subsequent stings.
It is strongly recommended that you hire experts to destroy any wasp nests on your property.
