As the temperatures rise in the Lehigh Valley, including Emmaus, Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, you may notice an increase in wasp activity around your home or business. While these insects play an important role in our ecosystem, their heightened presence during the summer can be a cause for concern, especially when they start building nests in or near living spaces. At County Pest Control, we’re here to explain why wasps are more active during the summer and provide science-based, environmentally responsible solutions to help you manage them effectively.
Why Wasps Are More Active in the Summer
1. Nest Expansion and Colony Growth
During the spring and early summer, wasp colonies are in the growth phase. The queen, who survived the winter, starts a new colony and lays eggs. By mid to late summer, these eggs have hatched, and the colony is at its peak size, which is why you see so many wasps around. The workers are busy foraging for food to support the growing colony.
2. Search for Sugary Foods
As the season progresses, wasps shift from primarily hunting for protein (to feed their larvae) to seeking out sugary foods and drinks. This change in diet often leads them to human habitats, where they are attracted to fruits, sugary beverages, and even food scraps left outdoors.
3. Defensive Behavior
As their colonies reach full size, wasps become more territorial and protective of their nests. This makes them more aggressive towards perceived threats, which can increase the risk of stings for those who accidentally disturb a nest.
What You Can Do About It
1. Early Detection and Prevention
The best way to manage wasps is to prevent them from becoming a problem in the first place. Regular inspections around your property can help you detect the early stages of nest building. At County Pest Control, we recommend checking eaves, attics, sheds, and other sheltered areas where wasps like to build their nests. If you spot a small nest, contact us right away for safe removal.
2. Keep Food and Trash Sealed
Since wasps are attracted to sugary foods, keeping your outdoor dining areas clean is crucial. Make sure to cover food and drinks when outside and promptly clean up spills. Additionally, keep trash cans sealed tightly and away from entrances to your home or business.
3. Professional Wasp Control
If you’re dealing with a large wasp nest or experiencing frequent encounters with these stinging insects, it’s time to call in the professionals. At County Pest Control, we use science-based methods to safely remove wasp nests and implement preventative measures to keep them from returning. Our environmentally responsible approach ensures that while we manage the wasp problem, we’re also considering the impact on the local ecosystem.
4. Avoid DIY Wasp Nest Removal
Attempting to remove a wasp nest on your own can be dangerous. Wasps can become highly aggressive when their nest is threatened, leading to multiple stings. Our trained technicians have the expertise and equipment to handle wasp nests safely, so you don’t have to put yourself at risk.
Contact County Pest Control for a Free Estimate
Don’t let wasps ruin your summer. If you’re noticing increased wasp activity around your property, contact County Pest Control today. We offer free estimates and will work with you to create a customized plan to manage wasps and other pests effectively. With our science-based and environmentally responsible pest control methods, you can enjoy a safer, more comfortable summer in the Lehigh Valley.
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