Wasp Surge in Calgary: Why You’re Seeing More Stings This Year
As summer wraps up and Calgarians savor the last of the warm weather with outdoor activities, an unwelcome buzz has been increasingly frequent in the city—wasps. This year, the wasp population seems particularly aggressive, turning once-peaceful picnics into frantic scenes of swatting and buzzing. So, why are there more wasps this year, and what’s behind their heightened activity?
Nathaniel Heppell, from Ace Humane Wildlife Removal and Pest Control in Oakville, Ont., sheds light on the situation. He explains that late summer typically sees a spike in wasp activity as their colonies reach their peak. However, this year, the colonies have been exceptionally large. “The mass population inside some of these colonies is greater than I’m used to seeing,” Heppell notes. This increase in size is contributing to the heightened number of stings and sightings.
Also Read:- Sally Field's Classic Charm Shines Bright During L.A. Dog Walk
- Jameson Williams Shines in Lions' Season Opener with Electrifying Touchdown
The reason for this surge in wasp aggression lies in the changing dynamics of their colonies as the season progresses. According to Heppell, yellow jackets—the wasps most commonly seen buzzing around food—become more aggressive in late summer and early fall. This behavior is driven by the need to feed their larvae, which secrete a sugary substance that encourages worker wasps to keep hunting for food. As the season ends and the queen stops producing larvae, these worker wasps lose their food source and become more desperate, leading them to invade human spaces in search of sustenance.
In Calgary, the situation is no different. Antoine Ouellette of That Pest Control Guy reports an unprecedented volume of calls related to wasp problems. “It’s so busy, it’s incredible. We have at least 30 calls a day,” he reveals. The warm weather and abundant food sources, such as aphids that wasps feed on, have created ideal conditions for their population to thrive. The mild winter also played a role by allowing more wasps to survive and emerge in the spring, further boosting their numbers.
The increased wasp activity isn’t just a Calgary issue; other areas, including the prairie provinces, have reported similar surges. In Edmonton, residents have taken matters into their own hands, setting up DIY traps to combat the infestation. However, pest control experts advise caution. Dul Elassadi from We Clean Pest Control emphasizes that while DIY traps may offer temporary relief, professional intervention is often more effective. He explains that many homemade traps only capture a fraction of the wasps that professional-grade solutions can handle.
For those looking to minimize encounters with wasps, experts recommend several strategies. Using a fan during outdoor gatherings can deter wasps, as they dislike moving air. Wasp traps can also be effective if placed strategically around the perimeter of your gathering area. Yet, if you discover a wasp nest in a hard-to-reach spot or on your property, it’s best to consult with a professional to avoid potential dangers.
In summary, while wasps are a natural part of the late summer landscape, this year’s heightened activity can be attributed to favorable conditions and an unusually high population. As we enjoy the final days of summer, staying informed and prepared can help mitigate the annoyance and risk associated with these pesky insects.
Read More:
0 Comments