Wasp Removal

About This Service

Wasps are an increasingly common and dangerous pest problem in Melbourne, particularly during the warmer months from November through to April. The most significant species in Melbourne is the European wasp (Vespula germanica), an introduced pest that is far more aggressive than native Australian wasps and poses a genuine health risk. European wasps build large papery nests in sheltered locations including roof voids, wall cavities, garden retaining walls, and underground. Mature nests can contain tens of thousands of individual wasps and are vigorously defended - unlike bees, wasps can sting repeatedly without dying, and a disturbed nest will cause multiple wasps to attack simultaneously. European wasp stings cause intense burning pain, swelling, and in allergic individuals can trigger anaphylaxis - a life-threatening reaction requiring immediate medical attention. Approximately 2% of the population has a severe allergy to wasp venom. If you or a family member has been stung previously and experienced a severe reaction, it is critical to carry an EpiPen and seek treatment before attempting any proximity to the nest. Never attempt to treat a European wasp nest yourself. Native paper wasps (which build small, umbrella-shaped nests in open locations) are less aggressive and less dangerous, but can still sting when their nest is disturbed. Mud dauber wasps (which build clay tube nests on walls and in sheds) are generally docile and rarely sting. Our wasp removal service is tailored to the species involved. For European wasps, we use professional insecticidal dust injected directly into the nest entrance at dusk when wasp activity is lowest. For paper wasp nests in accessible locations, we can remove the nest after treatment.

Signs You Need Wasp Removal

• Wasps entering and exiting from a hole in the ground, wall, roof eave, or retaining wall
• A large papery nest visible in a sheltered location such as a roof eave, garage, or tree
• Increased wasp activity around food and drinks during outdoor meals
• Wasps found inside the house, particularly near ceiling light fittings or wall cavities
• A loud buzzing sound coming from a wall, ceiling, or subfloor area
• Wasps foraging on meat, sweet foods, or sugary drinks - a distinguishing behaviour of European wasps
• Family members or pets being stung with increasing frequency near a particular area of the property

Prevention Tips

• Keep food and drink covered when eating outdoors, particularly sweet drinks which attract European wasps
• Seal rubbish bins tightly and keep them away from outdoor entertaining areas
• Do not attempt to block or seal a wasp nest entrance - this traps the wasps inside and causes them to attack in a panic
• Never attempt to treat a European wasp nest with over-the-counter products - it is dangerous and rarely effective
• If you find a nest, keep the area clear and call a professional immediately
• Wear closed shoes, long sleeves, and light-coloured clothing when working in the garden during wasp season
• Seal gaps and openings in eaves, wall cladding, and roof voids to prevent wasps from nesting inside