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Wasp nest: what to do?

Under the roof, in the ground, behind a shutter… Identify the nest and get a professional to intervene in a few clicks.

Report a wasp nest Identify a wasp nest

In Belgium as in France, wasp nests (common and German wasps) develop from spring onwards and reach their maximum size in summer, with up to several thousand individuals. They are found under roofs, in shutter boxes, hedges, garden sheds or directly in the ground.

An active nest near a busy area presents a real risk of stings, especially for children and allergic persons. The earlier in the season the nest is treated, the simpler and faster the intervention.

Reports on WASPP in 2026

9

reported nests

6

treated nests

Identify a wasp nest

  • •Size : wasp 11 to 18 mm; nest from a few centimetres in spring to over 50 cm by late summer
  • •Colour : bright yellow body striped with black, clearly marked narrow waist
  • •Nest : grey papier-mâché appearance, hidden in a shelter: roof, shutter box, hedge, cavity in the ground
  • •Activity : continuous coming and going at a single entry point, peak activity at the height of summer

Is a wasp nest dangerous?

Wasps defend their nest: any vibration or blocking of the entrance can trigger a series of stings. The risk is serious when the nest is close to a door, terrace or window, or in case of venom allergy. Never block a nest's entrance: the wasps will look for another way out, sometimes into the house.

✓ Do

  • Keep your distance (at least 5 m)
  • Photograph from a distance if possible
  • Report immediately on WASPP
  • Call a certified professional

✗ Don't

  • Try to destroy the nest yourself
  • Spray with water, petrol or pesticide
  • Use a ladder or aerial platform without PPE
  • Approach closer than 5 m

Good to know

A wasp nest is never reused the following year: the colony dies in autumn and only the future queens overwinter. Also take care not to confuse wasps with bees: bees are protected, and a bee swarm must be collected by a beekeeper, not destroyed.

Frequently asked questions

As soon as the nest is near a busy spot (door, terrace, window, frequently used garden) or someone in the household is allergic. A nest found early in the season is smaller and simpler to treat.
The price depends on the nest's accessibility and the region. Reporting on WASPP is free and without obligation: the notified professional states their conditions before any intervention.
No. A nest is never recolonised the following year. However, a favourable site (same roof, same shelter) can attract a new queen the next spring.
Wasps are bright yellow and smooth with a narrow waist; bees are stockier, brown and hairy. If you see a hanging cluster of insects (a swarm), they are bees: contact a beekeeper, the swarm will be collected alive. Bees are essential and must not be destroyed.

Identify other species

Not sure about the species? Check our other identification guides.

Ready to report?

Report a nest now