If it seems like wasps and hornets are getting bigger by the second, you’re not imagining things.
Though a “second” is an exaggeration, the fact they grow quickly from the spring into the summer months is quite evident during July and August. Both the individual vespids and their nests are now reaching their maximum size – which leads to people noticing them more and more.
“This is prime time for wasp and hornet activity as their nests are fully active,” says Mark Sampson of Muskoka Pest Control. “The individual adults are fully developed, and they’re out hunting for nourishment for the young.”
Mark, who has over 30 years experience in pest control, says they see a lot more stings and issues with wasp or hornet nests in the summer.
Most wasps will die off in the fall, with the queens finding places to hibernate through the winter before waking up in the spring and starting their nests all over again.
Nests can be attached to homes and other manmade structures, as well as to trees. Some species nest in the ground. Those that are underground can be dangerous because their entrances are hidden, and you often don’t know about them until you get stung.
“If you find a nest on your property, it’s a good idea to call an expert to safely treat it,” says Mark. “The last thing you want is to endanger yourself or your family tackling a large wasp or hornet nest.”
Year-round pests
Ants and spiders seem to always be around and multiply so fast it’s important to have annual treatments to make sure they’re under control.
Meanwhile, with fall around the corner, it’s the time of year to be aware of mice wanting to set up shop in your home or cottage for the winter. It’s important to take care of potential mice issues right away because there are serious risks involved.
Not only are they prone to chewing on electrical wires and building materials, they carry dangerous diseases like hantavirus, and contaminate food and living areas. They also breed quickly: an average female can produce 40 young annually.
Other concerns, especially in the winter, can include cockroaches and bed bugs, while flies are a year-round nuisance. That’s why the experts at Muskoka Pest Control are on the job for all four-seasons.
“No matter the season, we’ll be there to protect you and your family from native pests and nuisance wildlife.”
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
