Wildlife UK Forum - Discuss the UK countryside and wildlife

Full Version: New Years Wasp
You're currently viewing a stripped down version of our content. View the full version with proper formatting.
I was quite surprised today to find a wasp buzzing around the hall. I don't think I've ever seen one at this time of year, but I didn't go near it as it seemed very lethargic. It definitely wasn't a queen either, not big enough, so it's strange that it's out now. Anyone else seen any wasps around?
Lucky you! I don't think I've ever seen any wasps around at this time of year, but I know it is fairly common for the odd one to be around. They are often the queens but workers too. I wouldn't go near it either when it is cold and they are very slow. Much more likely to sting you in that state.
I've seen quite a few this time of year in the past, although none this year. They aren't quite what you expect to see in January but they are still around. In fact, if I saw one this January I would be close to seeing more than I did in the entire summer!
Yep, they are quite often around. Usually the queen but often workers too. Probably out to look for a nesting place.
We have had a queen this week but it is because the loft is open at the moment & we find that they often crawl in under the roof tiles.
I think it is just too cold here where I am to see anything like that. It's -4 degrees Celsius right now.

Kingfisher
Thanks for all the responses. It's relatively mild here and it was the same back when I saw the wasp, nothing like the -4 you have now, which is probably much too cold for any sort of wasp. I'm glad it wasn't a queen because although I'd probably leave a nest unless it was in a very dangerous place, I'd prefer not to have one around if at all possible!

I haven't seen any wasp since that day so it must of been a one off.
We have had at least another 2 Skip is the official wasp capturer & evictor I'm afraid mostly because they were in the boys bedrooms & no-one wanted to keep a pet wasp!!
Reference URL's