European Wasps

European wasps are an invasive pest in Western Australia and should be distinguished from native wasps and other beneficial insects.

They can be attracted to meat, sweet foods, pet food, rubbish and outdoor eating areas and may forage some distance from their nest.

European wasp nests can occur in concealed locations, including underground or within suitable cavities, which means the nest itself may not be immediately visible.

Possible signs can include:

• Repeated numbers of similar wasps around food

• Wasps scavenging meat or other food

• Persistent activity around rubbish

• Wasps repeatedly travelling in the same direction

• Concentrated activity around a hole or concealed location

Because European wasps are an invasive species in Western Australia, suspected sightings should be taken seriously.

If you suspect European wasps, avoid disturbing the suspected nest or attempting to remove it yourself. The wasps can aggressively defend their colony when disturbed.

Where appropriate, the wasp should be identified and the relevant Western Australian reporting requirements followed.