Have you ever wondered why wasp nest removal is a popular service in Toronto? With over 550 species of stinging wasps in Canada, it’s no surprise that these buzzing insects can become a nuisance. In particular, social wasps like yellowjackets and hornets are common in urban and rural areas throughout North America, and are unfortunately notorious for their aggressive behaviour, posing a threat to pets and family alike. These wasps are drawn to food, sugar, and insects, making your property an attractive target for infestation.
If left unchecked, wasps and nesting hornets can not only cause significant damage to your property but also disrupt your outdoor living experience. Wasp nest removal in Toronto is a solution to keep your home free of biting insects and allow you to enjoy your outdoor spaces without stress.
What Are the Signs of Wasp Nest or Infestation
You must remove the wasp nest as soon as is possible to avoid it from spreading and inflicting pain on anyone. If you spot a lot of hornets or wasps in your backyard, there’s a possibility that they’re of a nest close by. There are thousands of wasps within a single adult nest, which is why it’s crucial to pinpoint the root of the issue.
- Increased wasp activity: A sudden surge in wasp sightings around your property, especially near eaves, overhangs, or in the garden, may indicate a nearby nest. Keep an eye out for wasps flying to and from a particular location.
- Visible nests: Wasp nests can vary in size and appearance, from small papery structures to large honeycomb-like formations. Look for them in sheltered areas like attics, under eaves, sheds, or in trees.
- Chewing sounds: If you hear faint chewing or scraping sounds from walls or ceilings, wasps might be constructing their nests within the structure. This could be a sign of an infestation that requires immediate attention.
- Wasp stings: Multiple stings in a short period, particularly when outdoors, can be a strong indicator of a nest nearby. Wasps are territorial and will defend their nests aggressively.
- Wasps around food: If you notice wasps frequently hovering around garbage cans, outdoor dining areas, or sweet food sources, they may have established a nest nearby. This is especially common during late summer when wasp colonies are at their peak.
It’s helpful to understand what kind of nest each kind of wasp builds so that you can know what to look for on the kind of wasp you observe moving around to recognize the nest.
Where to Find Wasps
Wasps are resourceful insects that build their nests in various locations, often seeking shelter and proximity to food sources. If you suspect a wasp problem, here are some common places to check for their nests:
- Eaves and Overhangs: Wasps exploit architectural features in homes to build nests under eaves, porch ceilings, or overhangs, providing shelter and security for their colony, as these areas offer protection from rain, wind, and sunlight.
- Trees and Shrubs: Wasp nests are not always built on human structures, as some species, like paper wasps, prefer the natural world. They build nests in tree branches with dense foliage, providing camouflage and protection from predators, or thick-growth shrubs.
- Attics and Wall Voids: Wasps are skilled at navigating hidden spaces, often exploiting small cracks, gaps, or holes around pipes or wires to enter attics or wall voids within homes. These secluded areas provide a nesting ground for wasps, often unnoticed until the infestation becomes more severe.
- Sheds and Garages: Unused or infrequently used structures like sheds and garages can become prime real estate for wasps, providing shelter and access to food sources like pet food or yard debris. Wasps readily take advantage of these environments to establish their nests.
- Ground Nests: Yellowjackets, a type of wasp, prefer underground nests, often found in abandoned rodent burrows, forgotten animal holes, or soil cavities, which can be dangerous due to their easy hiding and potential human disturbance.
How to Remove Wasp Nest in Toronto
Dealing with a wasp nest can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and safety measures, it can be done effectively. If you’re in Toronto and facing a wasp problem, here’s how to tackle it:
- Identify the nest location: Before taking any action, pinpoint the exact location of the nest. Look for it in sheltered areas like eaves, attics, sheds, or trees. Observe the wasps’ flight patterns to track their entry and exit points.
- Choose the right time: The best time for removal is during the early morning or late evening when wasps are less active and more likely to be inside the nest. Avoid removal during the day when they are most aggressive.
- Wear protective gear: Always prioritize safety. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, gloves, and a face veil to protect yourself from stings. Consider using wasp spray specifically designed for nest removal.
- Apply insecticide: If dealing with a small nest, use a wasp spray with a long-reaching nozzle to apply insecticide directly into the nest entrance. For larger nests, consider calling a professional pest control service for safe and effective removal.
- Dispose of the nest: Once the wasps are neutralized, carefully remove the nest and dispose of it in a sealed plastic bag. If any wasps remain, repeat the insecticide application before removing the nest.
Don’t Risk a Sting!
If you want to remove a wasp nest in Toronto, it is necessary to identify the type of wasp and be aware of where the nest is. If you don’t have experience eliminating wasps can be difficult, which is why it is highly recommended to hire a professional for a wasp control and removal. Our expert team has eliminated hundreds of nests of wasps from Toronto businesses and homes.
If you find any wasp nest or wasp around, without hesitation, contact Maple Pest Control at (416) 520-8575.
