Wasps are a common sight during warmer months, and understanding their nesting cycle is beneficial for homeowners and anyone encountering these insects. Their presence can be a nuisance, and knowing when and how they build their nests can help in managing interactions. This knowledge allows for proactive measures, potentially reducing the challenges associated with larger wasp colonies later in the season.
The Start of Wasp Nest Construction
Wasp nest construction begins in the spring, marking the start of their annual cycle. As temperatures rise, queen wasps emerge from winter hibernation, often in sheltered cracks or crevices. These queens are the sole survivors of the previous year’s colony and establish a new one. Warmer weather prompts the queen to search for a suitable location to build her nest.
She gathers building materials by stripping wood from sources like fence panels, sheds, or garden furniture. This wood is chewed and mixed with her saliva to create a paper-like pulp, forming the nest’s structure. The queen constructs an initial set of hexagonal cells and lays a single egg in each. These first eggs develop into worker wasps, which expand the nest and forage for food, allowing the queen to focus solely on egg-laying.
Identifying New Nests and Typical Sites
Newly started wasp nests are small, resembling the size of a golf ball or a marble. These initial structures have a paper-like appearance, with visible hexagonal cells. The nest’s color ranges from off-white to brown, depending on the wood fibers used. Early nests are difficult to spot due to their small size and the queen’s tendency to build them in concealed locations.
Queens seek sheltered, dry places for protection. Common locations for these initial nests include under eaves, within sheds, attics, or wall voids. Some species, such as yellowjackets, may also build nests underground in old rodent burrows or other holes. Paper wasps create open, umbrella-shaped nests that hang from porch ceilings or under eaves.
Managing Early Wasp Nests
Discovering a new wasp nest early in the season offers an advantage for management. Early detection allows for easier and safer removal because the nest is small and contains only the queen or a few developing workers. Addressing the nest at this stage prevents it from growing into a large colony with thousands of aggressive wasps later in the summer. Timely removal can reduce the risk of stings and potential property damage.
For small, accessible nests, some individuals may opt for DIY removal, taking precautions like wearing protective gear and performing the task at night when wasps are less active. However, for larger, hard-to-reach nests, or if there are concerns about safety or allergic reactions, professional removal is recommended. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to safely eliminate the nest and ensure complete removal, preventing re-infestation.