The two most commonly encountered wasp species are the Common wasp ( Vespula vulgaris ) and the German wasp ( Vespula germanica ). Wasps can be very aggressive and common pests in the UK. Wasp stings can be very painful and even more dangerous to some people who if they have a reaction can go into anaphylactic shock.

This is because the sting carries a venom that can cause soreness and a burning sensation. Wasps can also be a problem when near food or drink. If the food or drink is unknowingly ingested with a wasp, a sting to the inside of mouth or throat can cause severe swelling or blockage.

A defensive mechanism that a wasp has is to let out a pheromone when it is in distress. This will lure other wasps from its nest to attack any danger near the distressed wasp. This can lead to frenzied stinging by numerous wasps which can be very painful to a person or even fatal!

A business that is experiencing high numbers of wasps has a care of duty to its customers and employees. The European Hornet ( Vespa crabro ) is twice the size of a wasp and is yellow with brown coloured stripes instead of the black stripes that wasps have! Are you being plagued by wasps, are they nesting in your property.