As we move toward the UK summer the queen wasps are coming out of hibernation and begin to lay their eggs. While the return of the wasp population is good news for farmers, they are a real problem for residents and businesses in our urban and city areas. And it's not just fear of an irritating sting that puts people off; for an unlucky few, a wasp sting can create a fatal reaction as they experience an anaphylactic shock if stung. Here we show you the top 10 wasp facts for this summer.

1. Top 10 Wasp Facts for Summer 2014
By Excel Environmental Services
http://www.excelenvironmental.co.uk
Photo by Richard Bartz

2. When a wasp dies or is killed by a predator they emit
pheromones that warn other wasps they are in
imminent danger. This results in the surrounding
wasps becoming much more aggressive.
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3. For most people a wasp sting will cause pain for
up to 24 hours. In others, who are allergic to their
venom, it can cause an anaphylactic reaction and
may be fatal.
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4. Ordinary sting pain can be treated by antiperspirant
deodorant that contains aluminium particles. This
soothes the stung area and reduces swelling.
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5. Most social wasps live in hierarchical
colonies with Queens, Workers and
Males.
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6. Unlike bees, wasps do not produce honey.
They do, however, help propagate
pollination of flowers and crops.
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Photo by George Shuklin

7. The caterpillar and their larvae are the
main pray for wasps.
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8. There are 100,000 species of wasps.
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9. The largest known wasp is the Asian
Giant Hornet which grows up to 50
mm in length.
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Photo By KENPEI

10. Wasps do not produce wax and therefore
their nests are made of chewed wood and
plants
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Photo By Alvesgaspar

11. Although wasps can be a problem from as
early as May, their most aggressive
behaviour tends to occur during the months
of August to October.
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Photo By Gilbertus

12. If you are experiencing a wasp problem"
you can contact Excel Environmental
Services on 0141 889 2999 24/7 or visit"
http://www.excelenvironmental.co.uk