Wasps are commonly observed foraging and tending to their nests during the day. This leads many to wonder about their activity once darkness falls and if they remain awake throughout the night.
The Diurnal Nature of Wasps
Most common wasp species, such as yellow jackets and paper wasps, are diurnal, meaning their activity peaks during daylight hours. This daily rhythm is largely dictated by their biology, particularly their reliance on visual cues. Wasps have compound eyes suited for bright light, but their vision is limited in low-light conditions.
Sunlight provides the warmth and energy necessary for foraging and nest maintenance. As dusk approaches, these wasps typically return to their nests. They do not “sleep” like mammals, but instead enter periods of inactivity or rest. Even when motionless, they remain alert and can quickly respond to stimuli. Inside the nest, worker wasps may continue duties like tending to larvae or repairing the nest structure.
Exceptions to Nocturnal Inactivity
While most wasps are inactive at night, certain species or circumstances can lead to nocturnal activity. European hornets (Vespa crabro), for instance, are active after dark, especially when temperatures are warm or near artificial lights. They may hunt during dusk and into the night. Some less common species, such as certain parasitic wasps, are nocturnal and are frequently observed around lights. Tropical paper wasps and some spider wasps may also exhibit nighttime activity.
Artificial light sources, like streetlights or porch lights, can attract typically diurnal wasps. This attraction can disrupt their natural patterns. Blue and ultraviolet lights are particularly appealing to these insects. If a wasp nest is disturbed, whether by a flashlight or physical contact, the wasps may become aggressive and take flight, regardless of the time of day.
Encountering Wasps at Night
Encountering wasps at night requires a calm and cautious approach. If you spot a wasp, especially a larger one like a hornet, which can be more active after dark, it is best to avoid sudden movements or swatting, as this can provoke them. If the wasp is indoors and attracted to a light, turning off the interior light and opening a window or door while keeping an outside light on can guide it to an exit. For individual wasps, a spray bottle containing a mixture of soap and water can effectively incapacitate them, as the soap clogs their respiratory pores.
Discovering a wasp nest at night calls for extreme caution. It is best not to attempt to remove the nest yourself, even though wasps are less active and mostly inside the nest. Disturbing an active nest can lead to multiple painful stings. Instead, mark the location and contact a professional pest control service during the day for safe removal. If professionals work at night, they may use a red or amber-filtered light, which is less likely to agitate the wasps than a bright white light.
To prevent nocturnal encounters, ensure your home has sealed entry points like intact window screens and caulked gaps around doors and windows. Keep outdoor food and garbage tightly covered, as sweet substances attract wasps. Consider installing yellow or amber-tinted LED outdoor lights, as these are less attractive to insects than traditional bright white or blue lights. Planting wasp-repelling herbs like peppermint or mint near outdoor living areas can also help deter them.