Category: Pest Advice

Preparing for Wasp Problems This Winter – Getting Ahead for Next Spring

As the colder months approach, many homeowners assume that wasp trouble is over for the year. In fact, winter is a crucial period when the groundwork for next spring’s wasp activity is being laid. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can greatly reduce the chance of a wasp nest forming on your property next season.

Why Winter Matters

During winter, only the queen wasp survives. She hibernates through the cold months and then emerges in spring to build a new nest. Fertilised queens seek sheltered areas such as lofts, wall cavities, sheds and garages to overwinter safely. Since old nests are never reused, reducing potential hiding and nesting spots now can make a big difference once spring arrives.

What You Should Do This Winter

Inspect and seal potential entry points
Check lofts, eaves, roof spaces, sheds, garages and outbuildings for any small gaps or holes. Seal these with foam, sealant or steel wool to stop queens finding a warm crevice. Pay particular attention to fascia boards, soffits and guttering, as these are common access points.

Tidy up around the garden and property
Clear away fallen fruit, ripe berries, compost piles and decaying vegetation. Wasps are attracted to sugary sources late in the year, so removing these helps discourage activity. Tidy up piles of wood, leaf litter and debris near walls or fences which could shelter hibernating queens.

Remove old nests and inspect regularly
Even though wasps won’t reuse an old nest, their presence shows the area was suitable before. Removing these nests makes it easier to spot new ones next year and reduces attraction. Always wear protective clothing when handling old nests or contact CSS Pest Services to handle this safely.

Monitor early spring activity
When the weather warms up in March or April, queen wasps start looking for nesting sites. If you notice a single wasp repeatedly flying into the same spot, or small papery material being built up, act quickly. A small early nest is far easier and cheaper to treat than a mature one later in the season.

Why Professional Help Is Worth It

Some nests are in awkward or hidden places like roof voids or behind cladding. DIY treatments can be dangerous and often only disturb the wasps without solving the problem. CSS Pest Services technicians are BPCA certified and use the correct equipment and treatments to remove nests safely and effectively. Booking a professional inspection before spring gives you peace of mind and helps avoid larger infestations later.

Quick Winter Checklist

  • Seal any cracks or gaps in walls, roofs and sheds
  • Clear away fruit, debris and garden clutter
  • Remove old nests safely or arrange a professional visit
  • Keep unused sheds and lofts closed through the winter
  • Watch for early spring activity and act quickly if you see it

By taking these simple steps now, you can prevent wasp problems next spring and enjoy the warmer months without the stress of nests forming around your home

Bees or Wasps?

As we enter springtime and the weather gets warmer and the days get longer honeybees start swarming and becoming more active.

Bumblebees are starting to make nests in various available cavities, gaps, holes in sheds, compost bins, fascia boards and roof spaces and will be collecting pollen and nectar.

Queen wasps will now be looking for ideal locations for nesting throughout the summer season where the worker wasps will soon be out to enjoy annoying our afternoons out in the garden while we try to enjoy a barbecue or picnic.

The solitary Masonry/mortar bees are also venturing out to find the ideal place to nest, which is sometimes found on walls that receive sun for most of the day. They often make solitary nests within the holes of a wall and enter via small holes in the pointing between the bricks. There are several different species of masonry bees, none of which are dangerous to humans, even getting one mad enough to sting you would be a challenge!

A honeybee swarm resting on a stone plinth. These are not bumble bees, wasps or masonry/mortar bees

It is this time of year we get inundated with many phone calls and messages about possible wasp infestations, when in fact they may simply be any of the above Bee species that are wanting to continue their life cycle.

It is important to note that CSS Pest Services will not treat to kill any Bee population that poses no threat to health or safety. We will in most circumstances make an assessment for the relocation and rehousing of all Bee populations.

Many people think there is just one type of bee – the fury bumblebee we see in the garden hovering around the flowers in our gardens. Honeybees or masonry/mortar bees can be mistaken for wasps and vice versa because of their similar shape and colour. However, if you look closely, they are in fact as different in appearance as they are in characteristics. In fact, there are 26 different bumblebee species in the UK and numerous species of bees. From honeybees, to bumblebees, masonry/mortar bees and many more.

There is a helpful guide below which shows the differences in honeybees, masonry/mortar bees, bumblebees and wasps.