European wasp
Distribution
The European wasp, Vespula germanica, is a native of Europe, North Africa and Asia Minor but is now found throughout the world, including Canada, the United States of America, South Africa, Argentina, Chile and New Zealand. Human-assisted transport of hibernating Queens in packaging material and other items contributed to this spread. The European wasp was first found in Tasmania in 1959 and on the mainland near Melbourne in 1977. The European wasp is now widespread in Australia and is an established pest in New South Wales.
Pest identification
European wasps have a black and yellow body, triangular markings on the abdomen, yellow legs and black antennae. They have clear wings and fly with their legs held close to their body. Worker wasps are about 15 mm long (similar to the size of a bee), Queens are usually larger but not often seen.
European wasps live in large communal nests, of which only the entrance hole may be visible. These nests will often be either underground or in cavities in walls, logs or trees. The worker wasps leave the nest to search for food and are attracted to meat, sweet food and drink.
European wasp life cycle
Winter
Cold weather typically kills the worker population, although in milder climates the entire nest can survive the winter. Mated queens overwinter alone in protected sites such as wood heaps, under bark, in clothing left outside or buildings, for example, sheds and garages.
Spring
The queen leaves the protected site once daytime temperatures exceed 12 °C, seeking a nest location and sugary food sources; they love apples. Queens lay eggs and raise the first worker population for the season.
Summer
Hive population increases. Once the queen has produced many worker wasps, she remains in the hive. By mid-December, worker numbers grow rapidly and the wasps seek out protein-rich foods. Worker numbers peak in late summer and autumn, making this the key time for non-repellent fipronil baiting.
Autumn
As the weather cools, hive activity slows. New Queens mate and prepare to leave the hive and seek shelter over winter. In autumn, the queen lays eggs for the next generation of queens. Once hatched, most queens leave the nest, mate and hibernate until spring.
Nuisance pest
European wasps are scavengers and are attracted to sweet foods and meat. They are commonly a nuisance at outdoor eating venues and barbecues.
The European wasp is not aggressive to humans or other animals if left alone. However, if disturbed, individual European wasps can sting multiple times, and if nests are threatened, the wasps release a chemical that triggers the colony to attack.
It is an aggressive stinging insect, so for nest removal, call a pest controller.
Actions to minimise risk
To discourage wasps:
- Do not leave fallen fruit or food scraps lying around your property
- Avoid leaving uneaten pet food or dog bones outside
- Make sure rubbish bins have tight-fitting lids
- Always keep compost covered
- Keep your swimming pool covered when not in use
- Cover exposed food at picnics and barbecues
- Check drink cans or bottles before drinking from them. Use clear containers or a straw.
