Don’t Get Caught Off Guard By Insects this Winter

With the cold weather now upon us, it doesn’t mean the threat from biting and stinging insects is over.

Stinging insects, like mosquitoes, wasps, bees and hornets, are still active in and around your property and when you are out for that brisk wintery walk. They are most commonly found around trees, bushes, lofts, overhangs, gutters, bins and under patios.

So what is the reason for their winter activity? Stinging insects can become aggressive because they are protecting the nests they have spent all year building.

Because wasps are quite dangerous, they are by far the most troublesome stinging pest. They often venture into areas where people live and play, causing problems for homeowners. They are attracted to our homes because of the foods we eat, and then throw away outdoors. Wasps will build their nests anywhere, in wall voids, lofts, crawlspaces or any other enclosed holes. They even build in holes that may have been made by rodents.

Wasps often eat other insects, but they will still forage for foods that are high in sugar content, such as fruit or fizzy drinks.

Here’s some tips to prevent stinging insects from pestering your family:

• Remove any food and water sources from your garden. Bring all pet food indoors, and keep bushes and trees trimmed back where insects like to nest.
• Maintain frequent inspections of the outside of your home, paying most attention to guttering and roof eaves. Any cracks you find need to be sealed immediately to keep all pests out.
• Properly seal your outdoor bins, and make sure the lid is closed at all times.
• When gardening, try to avoid wearing bright colours, and also don’t use scented creams or perfume.
• If a stinging insect lands on you, stay calm. Jerky reactions can majorly increase the likelihood of you being stung.
• If you consume any food or beverages outdoors, ensure everything is properly disposed of quickly, and not left out for bugs to feast on.

If you think you may have a stinging insect problem, please call us. Professionals strongly encourage that you do not attempt to move or destroy any nests on your property by yourself, because it’s very dangerous and can cause a lot of harm to you and your family. Leave the job to the Empire the London pest experts!