Destruction methods for the nests

Press, 4 April 1987, Page 21

Destruction methods for the nests

Wasp nests can range from the size of a golf ball to a metre-round boulder, and all are potentially dangerous. Wasps nest in trees, hedges, holes in the ground, under houses, and under the eaves of houses. Up to 25,000 wasps live in a nest. Their presence is frightening, but they seldom attack people unless disturbed. Dr Barry Donovan says that caution should be exercised when near wasps, or while trying to destroy nests made of paper. More than 3000 New Zealanders have found they are allergic to wasps and need medication if stung. In extreme cases, stinging victims have been admitted to hospital. Several people have died. Dr Donovan says that one of

the best ways to get stung is to try to remove a wasp nest with the garden hose. “That’s not the way to do it at all,” he says. A more effective method of destroying ground-based nests is to pour petrol on them. The petrol should not be lit, but if left the fumes will kill the wasps. The container holding the petrol, or a clod, or rag should be used to block the entrance of the nest to keep the fumes in. Borer bombs have been used to. wipe out wasp nests found in attics. Carbaryl powder can be used if wasps have nested under a house. The powder should be put where the wasps go under the house. Dr Donovan says, however, that in some cases the wasps might not be a problem. “You need to decide whether they are a problem before taking any action,” he says. “It is uncommon for a wasp to winter over.” Anyone in doubt should get in touch with a professional pest eradication company. For those unlucky to be stung, Dr Donovan, a veteran of many stings, advises ice to ease the swelling and pain. Anyone, who has a bad reaction after being stung, should get in touch with a doctor as soon as possible.