Why You’re Suddenly Seeing Wasps in Winter
If you’ve noticed wasps lazily buzzing around your home on a chilly day, don’t panic. It’s not a new infestation, it’s overwintering. As temperatures drop, fertilized wasp queens seek out warm, protected spots to survive the winter. Homes, attics, and even wall voids make perfect hideouts. The rest of the colony dies off naturally with the cold, leaving only these queens to carry the species into spring.
Because overwintering wasps enter individually, there’s usually no active nest inside your home. What you’re seeing are just stragglers who found their way in while searching for warmth.
Why It Matters
Overwintering wasps may seem sluggish or “drunk,” but they can still sting if provoked. Understanding their behavior can help you avoid unnecessary treatments and prevent future invasions once spring arrives. These queens will eventually look for outdoor nesting sites when temperatures rise, meaning the problem will naturally fade as the weather warms.
DIY Solutions for Homeowners
If you’re comfortable tackling small pest issues yourself, here are a few simple, safe DIY options for overwintering wasps:
Run Your Fireplace
The warmth and smoke make indoor areas less inviting for wasps and can encourage them to find another place to shelter.
Use Store-Bought Wasp Spray (Carefully)
For individual wasps you can see, a quick spray can help. Follow label instructions and avoid using sprays in tight or poorly ventilated spaces.
Seal Up Entry Points
Caulk small gaps around windows, doors, fireplaces, and attic vents. This not only helps with wasps, but also keeps other winter pests—like spiders and rodents—out.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re seeing a large number of wasps or find evidence of an active nest, it’s time to bring in help. A professional inspection ensures there’s no structural nesting, and exterior treatments can help prevent spring colonies from forming around your home.
At Paragon Pest Control, our experts can identify potential entry points, safely remove accessible nests, and help fortify your home for next season. Give us a call today!