At times, wasps can seem particularly vindictive. Everybody knows that when wasps sting, they can do so repeatedly. Many people have an extreme fear of the insects and there’s even a name for that fear (Spheksophobia). Contrary to popular belief, wasps only tend to bother humans when they’ve been bothered themselves. Most of the time, people that are targeted by wasps are attacked because they’ve entered a wasp’s territory. They might not even realize they’ve done it but that doesn’t make the wasps feel less threatened.
If you’re worried about wasp attacks and need wasp control in the Niagara area, then you should contact our team at Truly Nolen. We understand their behaviour better than anybody. In this article, we’re going to discuss how you may have annoyed a wasp without knowing it, and what you can do to avoid those painful stings.
So Do Wasps Sting for No Reason?
It might feel like it at the time, but wasps are not stinging you without reason. When wasps attack, they almost always do so as a defence mechanism. Sure, they use that stinger to hunt and immobilize prey. But wasps understand that human beings are much larger and stronger, and are not part of their food chain. To wasps, human beings are nothing but a threat to their home.
When a wasp stings a person, they do so because they fear that they are in danger. When wasps sting, they even release a chemical which other wasps can detect. When they detect it, other wasps will swarm the scene and help to attack the intruder. It takes a lot to get to this stage, but it always happens for a reason.
Why Do Wasps Sting People?
There are a few different reasons which will cause a wasp to sting you. If you take only one thing from this article let it be this: wasps sting you because they feel threatened. If you get a little too close to a wasp nest, or even worse, if you accidentally step on and destroy part of a nest, expect some painful stings to be coming your way. Wasps viciously protect their nests and do so with their only weapon – their stingers.
Like us, wasps can also be grumpy. As their numbers grow and food sources become more scarce, more often than not they’ll be hungry. This is particularly true in fall. By swatting them or trying to fend them off, you’ll just be making them angrier. If they’re already having a bad day, don’t be surprised if they interpret your gentle swat as a threat to them and their nest.
Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can follow to avoid being stung by wasps:
- Stay calm. Do not panic, flail your arms or scream. Move slowly away from them and don’t irritate them any further.
- Always wear suitable footwear outdoors and avoid making contact with wasp nests.
- Don’t wear any bright colours. Long-sleeved shirts are also a good idea.
- Try not to attract them with open containers of sweet drinks. Avoid strong-smelling perfumes as well.
- Keep food and drink covered. Wash your hands and the hands of children regularly. This will remove many sweet smells.
Truly Nolen Can Solve Your Wasp Problem
At Truly Nolen, our technicians certainly don’t fear wasps. They understand their behaviour and have the experience, training, and know-how to approach every wasp-related situation. We’re the wasp control experts in Niagara for a reason. Our treatment programs are highly effective and most of all, safe. Once we’ve eliminated your wasp issue, you can return to enjoying your home and yard without having to worry about painful stings again.