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Wasp Territory
The
wasp is native to Europe and the Mediterranean region and its introduction
to Australia was accidental.
Since the first stings in Tasmania in 1959, it has been steadily
spreading throughout the country.
They are an ever increasing insect problem in many countries as
the population and geographic areas expand steadily with each season.
In Australia, the season period begins from October to early May.
Although in the past they were only found in pockets throughout
the eastern section of Australia, they are now populating at a rate
where they will be found in most States, with a high mass in Victoria
and New South Wales.
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Removing
Nests
Dry
weather means wasps have not been washed out of their hives and
will be waiting to emerge during summer. The only effective way
of reducing their numbers is by destroying the nest.
However because they have a range of 120 metres, removal of the
nest doesn't ensure their
total removal as they can come from a nest in a neighbour's yard.
Be
warned, this job is for experienced people only. If you think you
have found a nest, keep away from it and call a pest control company.
However if you do decide to attend to the removal yourself, your
local CSIRO (Australia) will be
able to supply helpful information. If you do attempt to remove
a hive, do it at night when they are settled.
Although
there are ways of eradicating these nests, there are many instances
where the nest location is not known to people who have wasps in
their backyards. This is where Wasp-a-way becomes important in helping
you protect your family and friends whilst enjoying outdoor home
activities.
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Preventing
Stings
Do not attempt to swat or annoy wasps that are hovering around
food. Although difficult, the best way to avoid being stung is
to sit still and ignore the wasp.
Do
not wear heavy perfumes or cosmetics during summner.
If
you are aware of a nest location, keep away and seek professional
guidance on how to eradicate the nest. Your local council can
advise you of what actions you can take.
Warn
children of the dangers of wasps, especially about approaching
a nest.
Food
and drinks consumed outdoors should be checked with each mouthful,
as wasps tend to hide inside and under food.
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Sting
Treatment
A
wasp leaves a hot, red, swollen mark which can be very painful for
a few hours. The pain can be reduced with an ice pack (do not apply
directly to the skin) or an anaesthetic pain-relieving spray. Anyone
witnessing or experiencing a wasp attack should douse the victim,
or themselves, with a hose.
Seek
professional advice from your local chemist for products to reduce
general symptoms. Also enquire about the possible side-effects from
wasp stings. If in doubt, consult your doctor. Some people are allergic
to wasp venom and should seek immediate medical attention.
When
entertaining outside, never leave drinks uncovered - especially
cans. The wasp can get into the can and sting the mouth or throat
as it is swallowed with the drink. If you are stung in the mouth
or throat, seek immediate medical attention as the swelling can
cause breathing difficulties and possible choking. If a person is
under severe attack from a wasp swarm, use a garden hose from a
distance to ward of the wasps and immediately have everyone removed
from the danger area.
If stung, move to another area, ideally indoors, as soon as possible.
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