Wasps can be a nuisance when they build nests around homes and gardens. Even after their nest is destroyed, wasps may continue lingering around the area for a few reasons:
Wasps are resilient insects
Wasps are resilient insects that can survive the destruction of their nest. When a wasp nest is knocked down or sprayed with pesticide, some wasps inevitably survive and disperse from the area. As colony insects, wasps work to rebuild their home and will remain near the nest site. Destroying the nest removes the key structure but does not eliminate all the wasps.
New wasps may move into the area
The nest site may remain appealing to wasps after the original colony is gone. The holes and cavities that housed the old nest can attract new wasps looking for a home. New queens may choose the site to start building a new nest. Remaining pheromones from the previous colony can also draw wasps back to rebuild.
Wasps forage over a wide territory
Wasps frequently forage for food and water sources far from their central nest. Their territory can extend 1-2 miles out from the nest. Destroying a nest eliminates the home base but does not stop wasps from continuing to fly through and forage in the broader area they are accustomed to.
Wasps follow food sources
Wasps need sugars, proteins and water to survive. They are opportunistic foragers and go wherever reliable food sources exist. Trash cans, compost piles, sweet drinks and ripe fruit are common attractants. As long as these food and water sources remain, wasps have incentive to keep returning to the area after the nest is gone.
Why Do Wasps Keep Coming Back After Nest Removal?
Here are some key reasons why wasps may persist around an area even after their nest has been eliminated:
Surviving wasps from the original colony
When a wasp nest is knocked down, a portion of wasps typically survive and disperse out from the nest site. These remaining wasps continue seeking food, water and shelter in the familiar territory.
Pheromones attracting new wasps
Chemical pheromones from the previous nest can linger at the site, drawing in new wasp queens looking to start a colony. The lingering scent signals it was a favorable nesting spot.
Suitable habitat and food sources
If the location offers what wasps need – sheltered cavities for nesting, access to sugary substances, availability of insects and moisture – they have reason to return. Removing the nest makes the site less ideal but does not alter the broader habitat.
Large foraging range
Wasps can fly 1-2 miles from their nest to forage. This large territory means wasps from neighboring nests may frequent the area despite demolition of a single nest.
Steps to Discourage Wasps from Returning
It can take time and effort to fully deter wasps from an area after removing a nest. Here are proactive steps to make the site less inviting:
- Seal holes and cavities wasps can use for nesting sites
- Use chemical repellents around potential entry points
- Install screens on vents, overhangs and windows
- Remove food waste and ripe fruit that attracts wasps
- Limit sugary drinks, juices and popsicles outdoors
- Cover trash and compost bins securely
- Use traps as monitors to help locate and remove lingering wasps
When to Call a Pest Control Professional
If wasp problems persist after removing a nest, contact a licensed pest control professional. Experts have the proper equipment and insecticides to:
- Kill surviving wasps and find any hidden nests
- Apply specialized dusts and sprays into nesting spots
- Identify species to tailor the best elimination methods
- Provide advice to make the property less attractive
Controlling wasps often requires patience along with targeted methods. Fully remedying an infestation may take weeks or months after the initial nest removal.
Preventing Future Wasp Nesting
To discourage wasps from returning and building new nests:
- Seal cracks, holes and openings in walls, roofs, vents, etc.
- Install fine screens on windows and vents
- Use caulk and steel wool to fill cavities
- Paint/stain exposed wood surfaces
- Prune branches and vegetation touching buildings
- Remove trash frequently
- Clean up fallen fruit from trees
- Keep kitchens and outdoor eating areas very clean
Making the property less hospitable to wasps is key. Target their shelter needs, food sources and access points to permanently solve infestations.
When Wasps Persist, Professional Help is Best
If wasps continue frequenting an area after the nest is gone, bringing in pest control experts is advised. They have the tools and knowledge to:
- Inspect for hidden nests that may be missed by homeowners
- Apply insecticides and dusts into wall voids and other nesting spots
- Use bait traps and monitor for any wasp activity
- Help identify vulnerabilities in the property’s design
- Provide customized recommendations for exclusion and prevention
A combination of professional treatments and diligent prevention steps offer the best chance of ridding your home of lingering wasps.
Conclusion
Wasps are hardy, social insects that can persist in an area after their nest is eliminated. Destroying the nest removes the core colony but does not prevent wasps from continuing to frequent a wide foraging territory. Sealing up nesting sites, limiting food sources and working with pest control experts are proactive solutions to discourage wasps from returning after nest removal.