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As summer in Canada draws to a close, individuals all over are excitedly embracing the last of the warm weather and enjoying outdoor activities. Unfortunately, there is a persistent threat that can disrupt these plans – the bothersome wasp. Towards the end of summer, wasp populations peak as colonies grow larger and the need for food intensifies in preparation for winter. Unlike honeybees, wasps can deliver multiple stings as they do not leave their stingers behind, explains David Beresford, associate professor in the biology department at Trent University in Oshawa, Ont.
“The wasps can sense the approaching cold weather and they need a place to spend the winter,” says Beresford. “So they search for small holes in our shingles, eaves, decks, or garages – anywhere to find cover. As they do this, it may seem like they are coming directly towards us when we step outside.”
Typically, wasps are occupied with hunting and feeding their larvae and “pay no attention to us,” says Beresford. Therefore, it appears that the wasps suddenly become more present in our living spaces. However, wasps are not only looking for a cozy spot for winter hibernation – they also take a keen interest in our meals, whether it’s sizzling meat on the barbecue, a glass of wine, or a plate of fruit. Consequently, this often results in an influx of wasps during outdoor gatherings.
As summer comes to an end, wasps have had an entire year to build up their populations. Each year, a colony starts with a single queen who forages, collects food for the larvae, builds the nest, and gradually expands it throughout the summer. By the end of summer, the nest is at its peak size. Additionally, as flowers and insects become scarce, wasps become more aggressive in their search for food, invading children’s drinks, picnics, and barbecues in a bid to find anything sweet, meaty, or fishy.
Wasps populations fluctuate each season based on factors such as temperature, food availability, and the success of the previous year’s colonies. The variation is quite localized across Canada. For instance, in Winnipeg, this year has been particularly dry, resulting in more aggressive wasps due to limited food sources. This trend likely applies to most regions in Canada.
There are hundreds of wasp species in Canada, with yellowjackets, hornets, and paper wasps being the most common. Among these, yellowjackets are both the most common and aggressive. Yellowjackets, which are often mistaken for bees, are involved in about 70% of the stings to humans in North America. Other wasp species typically leave humans alone unless they feel threatened.
To avoid wasp stings, it is advised not to swat them. Usually, if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone. However, yellowjackets can occasionally attack unprovoked. Practicing proper sanitation is another method of mitigation. When picnicking outdoors, make sure to securely store all food, clean up promptly, and remove all trash as wasps are attracted to these sources. By providing them with nothing to eat, they will be less likely to linger.
Most wasp stings only result in temporary injury, such as pain, swelling, and redness around the sting. However, some stings can be more severe, even life-threatening, depending on location and individual allergies. Wasps also have beneficial qualities. For instance, they pollinate plants, although not as efficiently as bees, and act as natural predators for garden pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
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