Warning over unusual wasp nests that could be problem next week

Pest control firms are reporting a rise in 'bigger and more difficult' wasp nests despite winter settling in and people could disturb them in lofts, sheds and garages in the days ahead as they reach for Christmas decorations.

Experts say the 'highly unusual' surge in wasp reports is due to unusually warm weather - which has provided wasps with plentiful food sources. Jacquie Clark, managing director of Randall Crawford Pest Control said her business - which has been running for over 40 years - has never seen such an influx of calls in November.

She described encountering larger and more heavily populated nests - with pictures taken by staff showing the sheer size of the nests removed from sheds, homes and garages. She said: "To say it's unusual would be an understatement.

"We have been 40 years in this trade, and I have honestly never heard of wasp nest problems in November - but we are now taking daily calls from people asking for help. The first frost would normally get rid of them - but we haven't had that yet."

A typical wasp nest holds up to 10,000 wasps - but Jacquie says that recent nests have been bigger and more difficult to control. However, as the weather begins to get colder, wasp activity should die down as males die off and females begin hibernation.

The British Pest Control Association advises that if a large number of wasps are seen around your home, there is likely an active nest nearby. Nests are typically found under trees, in bushes, wall cavities, or in sheds and garages.