You’re not alone. The most abundant and dangerous pests in New Zealand are these tiny, winged invader insects. Wasps were accidentally introduced in 1940s at the end of World War II from Germany and as a non-native species, they had devastating effects.
Not only are wasps dangerous for children an domestic pets but wreak havoc on our ecosystem and unique biodiversity. These opportunistic feeders don’t target any particular insects, rather, they eat them all, consuming a major food source for the rest of the natives in the forest. Newly hatched native birds are an easy target of which they will attack and kill in their nests.
Their sharp stinger produces a venom that when injected into the wound causes a great deal of pain. The toxic proteins in the venom induce serious allergic reactions which can result in a life-threatening reaction for some. Call Service King to get rid of any wasp infestations that may be thriving in your garden.
What should you do if you are stung by a wasp?
Mild/ normal wasp sting reactions
If you’re not allergic to stings, only minor symptoms during and after will show up. A sharp pain or burning can be felt as an initial sensation after being stung. You may also experience itching, redness, and swelling in the area.
Most of the time, these reactions subside on their own after a week or so. If they don’t, consult your doctor and they may direct you to take a medication which can help reduce the discomfort.
Severe allergic reactions to stings
Suffering from a severe allergic reaction can mean the body goes into shock. This is referred to as anaphylaxis. One should seek immediate emergency care for the treatment.
Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to wasp stings may include –
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Sudden drop in blood pressure
- Wheezing or gasping
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach cramps
- Hives or itching in body parts not affected by sting
- Loss of consciousness
- Weak or racing pulse
How do you treat a wasp sting?
For mild/moderate stings…
- Use soap and water to remove as much as venom as possible
- Use a cold pack to remove swelling and pain
- Keep the wounded area clean and dry
- If desired, cover with a bandage
For severe allergic reactions…
This needs immediate medical attention. Please call 111.
How do you eradicate wasps?
If you’re searching for wasp control solution, the approach depends on whether the nuisance is spread across large areas with several nests or one or two nests in an area.
Controlling a large area with several wasp nests
Vespex was specifically developed to target wasps. A protein bait which contains the insecticide ‘Fipronil’ is deployed from a bait station. Wasps take Vespex back to their own nests to feed their young. This bait is seasonally effective – when wasps are hunting protein. It also does not target bees.
If your property is prone to wasp nests, it may be worthwhile to get certified in the use of Vespex. To do so, you must pass an online test to ensure that you are using it correctly and per safety regulations. Click here for more Department of Conservation information.
Destroying single wasp nests
Choose a sunny day at dusk or dawn for your wasp hunting expedition. The low light angles will suggest and highlight the flight path as wasps enter and leave the nest.
Place a dessert spoonful of insecticide at the entrance of the nests. Make sure you are doing this after dark as wasps have stopped flying. You may want to use a puffer bottle for this task.
The worker wasps will spread the powder into the nest and their colony will die within a day’s time. Repeat this process until the activity comes to an end.Do not attempt this without safety equipment. Always follow insecticide instructions.
Alternatively, for professional help, reach us at 0800 004 120. Our qualified team will kick your ants, wasps, cockroaches, fleas, and vermin to the kerb and close the door so they can’t get back in. If something’s bugging you or your building, we’ll sort it out. Call today or fill in the request form.
