Oxfordshire homeowners issued wasp warning by experts

The advice comes as warmer weather arrives and insect activity increases, raising the risk of uninvited guests around homes and gardens.

Residents are urged to take simple steps now to avoid bigger problems later in the summer.

Niall Gallagher, technical manager at the BPCA, said: “These two simple steps in spring can make a real difference in the summer.

“Deterring wasps and mosquitoes from settling down and breeding in your garden means you’re much less likely to have problems with them later in the summer.

“You can’t keep them out, but a few visitors are much less hassle than thousands of insects that have moved in for the season.”

The first tip is to check regularly for wasp nests, especially in sheds, garages, under eaves, and in other sheltered areas.

Early-stage nests are typically small, around the size of a golf ball, and can be removed before the colony expands.

Wasp nests left undisturbed can grow to house between 5,000 and 8,000 adult wasps by late August.

While wasps are valuable pollinators and natural pest controllers, a large nest close to living areas can become a serious hazard, as threatened wasps release pheromones that trigger a defensive stinging response from the entire colony.

The second tip focuses on reducing mosquito breeding sites by emptying out water butts, buckets, watering cans, and any other containers where stagnant water has collected.

These should also be cleaned where possible to remove overwintering mosquito eggs.

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water, and removing these sites can prevent thousands of insects from emerging during warmer months.

Mr Gallagher said: “Of the native mosquito species in the UK, only a handful are connected to nuisance biting reports and generally, the only risk is a bite which is uncomfortable, itchy, and swollen, although occasionally people can have an allergic reaction to a mosquito bite which may need medical attention.”

He warned that changing climate conditions could increase the risk of non-native mosquito species becoming established in the UK, highlighting recent detections of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus eggs in England.

The BPCA also reminds residents that different stinging insects require different treatment options, and correct identification is key to safe removal.

Mistaking a wasp nest for a bee colony could put endangered bee species at risk if removed incorrectly.

Mr Gallagher said: “If there is any doubt at all, we highly recommend getting in touch with a BPCA member for advice.”