Did you know that the venom in a wasp sting contains a pheromone that causes other wasps to become more aggressive. Which is why we advise against treating a wasps nests yourself!
The effects from the sting of a wasp should wear off within 24 hours, always seek medical help if symptoms continue or you start to feel worse.

If you happen to get stung there are some home remedies that can help alleviate the pain. Apply a cold compress for 5 -10 minuets, you can apply a deodarant containing aluminium to help fight the pain, or vinegar/apple cider vinegar on some cotton wool. Honey can help the sting wound heal and reduce itching after the pain has subsided.

Queen wasps who have survived hibernating through the winter will find a suitable site and start nest building throughout spring. She will lay up to a dozen eggs and when they hatch into larvae she will feed them until they become workers. The workers then carry on nest production and forage for food, feed new larvae and defend the nest.

In late summer, the colony produces the males (Drones) and the new queens. They leave the nest to mate, the new queens then find a place to hibernate over the winter months. The cold weather will eventually kill the males workers and foundation queen.

Wasps are sometimes confused for honey bees. Although similar in size, their markings and colours are different. Wasps are usually between 1.3cm – 1.8cm (queens 2cm) and have a larger body than honey bees with black and yellow stripes. Wasps do not swarm like honey bees tend to, honey bees are also more gentle natured and reluctant to sting. Wasps can sting repeatedly and rapidly! Wasps will feed on smaller insects, sugary drinks or food waste. Honey bees feed on nectar from flowers.