CausesModerate risk
Why Are Wasps Around My House?
Quick answer
Wasps around a house usually mean there is a nest nearby — under eaves, in shrubs, in a wall or roof cavity, or in the ground — or that they are finding food such as sweet drinks, fruit, pet food or meat scraps. Paper wasps also collect wood fibre from fences and furniture to build their nests.
Why this happens
Wasps forage within a limited range of their nest, so repeated sightings in one place suggest a nest close by.
Late summer is peak season as colonies reach full size and workers seek sugars.
What you can do
- Watch where wasps fly to and from to locate the nest.
- Cover food and drinks outdoors and keep bins sealed.
- Pick up fallen fruit.
- Check eaves and shrubs in spring for small, new nests.
When professional help may be needed
If you find a nest near doors, play areas or entertaining spaces, or wasps are entering the house, consider professional removal.
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GuidePest Prevention Checklist
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Local information
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Sources & further reading
- Australian Museum — insects and spiders — Australian Museum
- Victorian Department of Health — environmental health — Victorian Department of Health
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