Pest control service

To book Opkill call 0800 980 4142 - when calling, let the member of staff know you are a resident of Lichfield District - treatments cost £44.00 + VAT. Opkill will need a minimum of one visit.

About wasps

The common wasp (Vespula vulgaris) and German wasp (Vespula germanica) are the most common species found in the UK and are almost identical in appearance.

This species of invertebrate can be identified by their distinctive black and yellow banded abdomen.

Each year around mid-April the ready fertilised queen will emerge from hibernation and will search for a suitable location to start a new colony.

The queen will start constructing the nest from chewed bark and timber mixed with wasp saliva. Once the nest is the equivalent size of a golf or tennis ball she will lay the first eggs.

Wasps' nests are frequently associated with roof spaces, air grates and wall cavities of domestic housing, as well as underground and hanging from trees. They vary in size, averaging a full size football depending on the size of the colony.

Throughout the summer you are less likely to be stung because the wasps are busy collecting food and bringing up the larval wasps. In late summer early autumn wasps can be more aggressive as their main food source diminishes. Late autumn the wasps die except for several queens who will fly off to hibernate elsewhere.

Nests are never used twice.

Annually between April and May check your property for nests - include the loft, eves, garage and shed. If you suspect a nest but can't see one in these areas take a walk around your property, looking for wasps going in and out of a single entrance hole every 2-4 seconds. This will indicate a nest a few inches behind this hole.

Wasps feed on a wide range of invertebrates including spiders, caterpillars, ants, bees, and flies. They will be attracted to sweet substances and rotting food, ensure any fallen fruit is cleared away quickly and that rubbish is not open to pests.

Wasps destroy many garden pests so depending on its position to sensitive areas the question should be asked whether its destruction is necessary.

If you intend to carry out your own treatment, read the label of the pesticide container and follow the instructions carefully.