Wasps exhibit aversion to rainy weather.
In North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, as the late summer months approach, the activity of common and German wasps peaks. These insects are ecologically valuable and, as such, it's crucial to manage them in a way that respects nature conservation laws.
To effectively manage wasps, prevention and deterrence are key. Removing food sources like exposed sweet drinks, ripe fruits, and food waste, as well as keeping garbage bins tightly sealed and cleaning areas where wasps forage, can significantly reduce their attraction.
Physical barriers, such as fine mesh screens and sealing entry points around buildings, can prevent wasps from gaining access to your home. Commercially available wasp traps, which catch wasps without the use of harmful poisons, can also be effective. However, it's important to ensure these traps do not indiscriminately harm other insects.
While it's best to avoid killing or disturbing wasp nests, there are instances where they pose a direct threat. In such cases, it's advisable to seek professional help from local pest control or environmental authorities. In North Rhine-Westphalia, wasp nests may be protected under certain laws, requiring permission to remove them.
Pesticides or poisons should be avoided, as they harm beneficial insects and the environment and are restricted by nature protection laws. This includes insect sprays, which are prohibited due to the protection of wasps and other insects by nature conservation laws.
To prevent wasps from approaching outdoor food and drinks, covering them is advisable. Cloves or clove-scented lemons can act as a deterrent for wasps. Interestingly, wasps are reported to not like rain. Gently wetting a wasp with water from a spray bottle can help to deter it, as the insect will think it's rain and fly back to the nest.
For people with allergies in the household or young children nearby, consultation with the local environmental office or beekeeping association may be necessary for relocation. The Association for the Promotion of Ecological Pest Control e.V. and the German Pest Control Association e.V. can provide addresses of reputable professional services.
The document "20250812_WSS Wasps.pdf," approximately 156 kilobytes in size, is associated with the Consumer Center North Rhine-Westphalia e.V. Offering sweets or meat at a distance from the table can help to 'direct' wasps away, and wasps are often found at coffee tables and picnic spots during late summer. As the young of wasps leave their nests during this period, it's important to remain vigilant and follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and sustainable environment for all.
