Summer may be nearly over, but European wasp season is only just heating up, according to the Transport Canberra and City Services Directorate.
Local wasp expert, Jim Bariesheff said data gathered in January was generally a good indicator as to what type of wasp season the ACT could expect.
“This year’s data indicates it is going to be an above average season, with peak wasp season continuing until May,” Mr Bariesheff said.
“In just over six weeks, there has been a big jump in European wasp nest reports, going from 50 to 400 in a short period of time,” he said.
“Nests at this stage of the season can contain anywhere between 3,000 to 5,000 wasps.”
Mr Bariesheff said most reports to the eWasp Hotline identified wasp nests in wall cavities, with several reports of wasps gnawing through gyprock and entering homes.
He said that at this stage of the season, Kambah had the highest recorded number of European wasp nests for the southside with 24 nests, and Weetangera has recorded 17 nests for the northside.
“A steady stream of yellow and black wasps entering or leaving a hole in the ground, a small entrance around doors and window frames or activity around the roof of a home are some common signs of where wasps have built their nests,” he said.
“European wasps can also nest in conifer trees and, in some cases, gardens.”
Mr Bariesheff said that when people sighted wasps in outdoor areas, they should keep in mind that the nest may not be on their property and could be up to 500 metres away.
He said that if people found a nest, they should stay clear of the site and seek advice from the eWasp Hotline by calling 6258 5551.
