Wasp Nest Lifecycle and Management

Recognising the Seasonal Threat Wasps Pose to Commercial Sites

Wasps can present serious risks to staff, visitors and operational continuity across commercial sites such as offices, schools, hospitals, and retail spaces. While visible wasp activity tends to peak in summer, nests begin forming much earlier in the year. Understanding their seasonal behaviour is essential for timely intervention and health and safety management.

Wasp Nest Development Timeline

April to May: Nest Formation

As spring temperatures rise, queen wasps emerge from hibernation and begin building nests. These are usually small at first, about the size of a golf ball. The queen lays the initial eggs, and the first adult workers will hatch around four to six weeks later.

June: Early Growth Phase

The nest gradually increases in size as the first generation of workers emerges. These workers take over the tasks of nest expansion, foraging and defending the colony, allowing the queen to focus solely on reproduction.

July: Activity Becomes Noticeable

By July, the wasp population within the nest starts to grow rapidly. This is often the point at which site staff or facilities teams begin to notice increased wasp activity around access points, bins, lofts, or outdoor areas. The risk of stings and workplace disruption increases significantly at this stage.

August to September: Peak Nest Size and Risk

This is the peak of the wasp season. Nests can contain anywhere from 2,000 to 6,000 adult wasps, with some reaching up to 20,000. Nests within lofts, wall voids, roof spaces or sheds can become extremely large. Wasps may become more aggressive as food sources decline, increasing the risk of stings and complaints.

October to December: Nest Decline

As temperatures fall and food becomes scarce, the nest naturally begins to decline. Worker wasps die off, and only newly produced queens survive by going into hibernation. Once the first heavy frosts arrive, the nest is no longer active.

Winter: Empty Nests

Old nests are never reused the following year, but they can remain in place without causing harm. However, new nests may be built nearby, especially in previously undisturbed or sheltered areas.

How long does a wasp nest last?

A wasp nest usually lasts from spring through to late autumn, typically between April and November, depending on weather conditions. In milder years, nests may persist into December, especially if they are located in well-insulated lofts or wall cavities. However, once temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, the nest begins to decline. By winter, only the newly produced queens survive by hibernating—worker wasps die off, and the nest becomes inactive.

Where do wasps build their nests on commercial premises?

Wasps are highly adaptable and can nest in a wide range of locations. Common sites on commercial properties include:

• Loft spaces and roof voids
• Wall cavities and fascia boards
• Boiler rooms and plant areas
• Tree stumps or garden edges
• Outbuildings such as sheds or storage units
• Underground or in wall recesses near bins

Do wasps return to old nests?

Wasps do not reuse old nests. Each nest is active for only one season, typically dying off in late autumn as temperatures drop and food sources decline. Once winter sets in, the nest becomes inactive and will not be used again. However, this doesn’t mean the area is wasp-free for good. Queens emerging from hibernation in spring may choose to build new nests in the same location, especially if it provided shelter and remained undisturbed the previous year.

What should businesses do about a wasp nest?

An active wasp nest can pose a serious health and safety risk, especially in environments with vulnerable individuals or public access. While the physical nest is not dangerous, the wasps inside can be aggressive, particularly later in the season. Stings may cause allergic reactions or medical emergencies.

If the nest is inactive, it does not need to be removed. However, active nests should only be treated by professionals. DIY products can agitate the colony and increase risk. OCS commercial pest technicians are equipped with the correct tools and protective equipment to handle nest removal safely and efficiently.

Need Professional Support?

If your site is experiencing increased wasp activity or you suspect a nest on the premises, contact OCS. Our commercial pest control teams will assess the issue, identify the nest location and provide safe, compliant removal to minimise disruption and protect your team.