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"Austrapest has been established for over 20 years" |
Vespula germanica
The European wasp originated in Europe but has found its way to America, Asia Minor and parts of Africa. It arrived in Australia in the late 1970's and is now classed as a pest.
If a nest is found, it is the homeowner's or occupier's responsibility to have it eradicated. Due to the aggressive nature of this wasp, this is best done by an experienced licensed pest controller.
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THE WASP
There are two castes - the workers, and the reproductives. (The queen and the males.)
The worker is about the same size as the honey bee. It has black arrow striped markings and bands on its stocky and smooth, vivid yellow body. It's antennae are about half the length of its body and it has longitudinally folded wings.
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Black V shaped markings
Yellow Body
Will sting multiple times |
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The Honey Bee
European wasps are often confused with bees which are more orange in colour and have much shorter antennae. Unlike the European wasp, bees' wings do not fold when at rest. |
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12 - 15 mm in length
Short Antennae
Only stings once |
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The Paper Nest Wasp
This native wasp is usually brown or orange in colour, with shorter antennae than the European wasp. They make a small nest about the size of a tennis ball, and will sting if disturbed.
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22 mm in length
Will sting if disturbed |
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Biology and Habits
In colder climates nests usually last one season but in warm climates like Australia, colonies may survive and extend all year round. Grey and papery, the nest is commonly found in the ground, behind retaining walls or in roof cavities. It may contain thousands of wasps.European wasps are extremely aggressive, especially in spring and summer. They can sting multiple times until their supply of venom is exhausted. They are attracted to cooking meat, sweet drinks and decaying food. (There have been cases of wasps entering open drink cans and stinging the victim in the mouth and throat. This has led to swelling of the tissues of the throat, choking and death.)
The sting is very painful and dangerous for allergic people. An ice pack can relieve the pain from a sting, but if there is any sign of allergy, medical attention should be sought immediately. |
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Control
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The first step in control is to locate the nest. It is important to note that the wasps can forage for food up to 500m away from the nest.
After location, Austrapest's trained technicians carefully inspect the nest and ascertain the best course of action. Control of the wasp must be done in the evening when it is less aggressive and back in the nest. |
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Nests are often high off the ground
Nests are always concealed. They are commonly found in tree trunks, buildings, or in the ground |
Due to the nature of the European wasp, and often the location of the nest (high off the ground), treatment can be a dangerous process. Contact us for more information or drop into the office to view our samples. |
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"Over 20 years of Excellence in Pest Management"
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