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They’re predicting a long hot summer for Southern Manitoba and, along with the province’s other flying six-legged nuisances, extended periods of high temperatures, tend to bring about an increase in the presence of yellow-jacket wasps, which can make it difficult to enjoy the outdoors.

Western Canada is home to 14 different species of yellow jacket wasp and, like their larger cousins, hornets; they are aggressive, easily provoked and carry a painful sting. They aren’t fun to have around and they can be difficult to get rid of.

Unlike honeybees, who feed on pollen and nectar, wasps are determined and deadly predators. They contribute greatly to reducing the number of flies, mosquitoes, and garden nuisance by devouring their grubs. As predators, they are naturally aggressive and, unlike bees, can deliver several stings. They also build much larger nests, housing many thousands of individuals and these nests can get even bigger with high temperatures as the rate of reproduction increases.

Wasps are also not particular about where they build their nests and both business owners and homeowners are aware of how an unfortunately placed hive can interfere with both customer traffic and the enjoyment of an individual home. In trees, under stairs, or under eaves are all places where wasp nests can be found and to deal with them, there are a number of options available, but as a do-it-yourself project, owners should be aware of some of the precautions to take.

The impact of a wasp colony on a property depends both on the size and location of the nest and homeowners can reduce the presence of the insect by rinsing out soda cans and bottles and to keep sugary-sweet things covered and protected. Barbecue grill should be scrubbed and all grease removed. Garbage and recycling bins should also be rinsed out regularly to eliminate residue that can be attractive to the insects. It is not recommended to swat a wasp if it’s bothering you, as wasps produce a pheromone when squashed that serves as a call to arms for other wasps to will come charging in aggressively in response.

Moreover, trying to eliminate a nest by oneself is particularly risky and it is highly recommended to engage a professional exterminator, like Winnipeg’s Gilles Lambert Pest Control, who has the expertise and the equipment to handle the invasion safely. As a homeowner, a single sting is painful enough, but a swarm assault, which is likely if the insects sense a threat to the hive, is not only painful but can be deadly. Wasp venom, in large doses, can lead to anaphylactic shock that can require the use of an epinephrine injector like an EpiPen or even hospitalization.

In short, this summer could prove a boom year for wasp interaction with people in Manitoba and experts suggest proceeding with caution, particularly in cases of high traffic areas where disturbing the hunters is more likely. If you are faced with this problem, some simple cleaning practices can help but for a more serious infestation, the services of an expert like Winnipeg’s Gilles Lambert Pest Control, who will remove wasp nests safely and thoroughly. They can also provide some helpful tips for minimizing future infestation.

Wasps are a nuisance to be sure, but with the proper precautions and the services of a professional, your summer can be as pleasant and relaxed as it should be, without the fear of terror from the sky.