Did you know there are more than 300 species of wasps present in Luxembourg? Yeah we know…crazy right? However, here’s the good news most are solitary and of the fifteen social species that live in colonies, only two species are likely to cause humans problems.

In general, wasps are useful animals. They pollinate flowers and repel insects, making them natural pest control agents. In other words, stop panicking and just tolerate any nests that are found in non-problematic places; you are in fact doing yourself and nature a favour.

Trouble-free coexistence, even near nests, is possible. In addition, the unjustified destruction of nests is prohibited by law for the protection of nature. By law, nests that do not represent a direct danger cannot be destroyed.

However, If you want to avoid any potential problems with wasp nests, now is the time when you can prevent them from setting up in unfavourable places. In April and May, until early June, most nests are under construction. At this stage, they are very sensitive to disturbances and can be chased away more easily:

- check dark sheds, shelters and children's playhouses, and disturb the queen from the start of construction. Also watch out for old mouse holes;

- Open and close shutters daily;

- In particularly difficult to access places, such as under patio boards, essential oils can be used as a preventive measure, such as clove, eucalyptus, tea tree, cedar, lemon can be directly sprayed on the area.

natur&ëmwelt via tel.: 621-969444 can give more advice and local advisers are also available from municipalities, nature conservation centres, nature parks and biological stations.

www.naturemwelt.lu and can be ordered via tel.: 290-4041 or via email: secretariat@naturemwelt.lu.