Why Are Wasps So Bad This Year?

A Look at Summer Swarm Season

If it feels like wasps are worse than ever this summer, you’re not imagining it.

Every year, we get a surge of calls from homeowners saying the same thing:
“We’ve never had this many wasps before.”
“They’re all over the porch and eaves.”
“We knocked down a nest, but they just keep coming back.”

Wasps can make outdoor spaces feel off-limits and even become a safety concern when nests are close to entryways. So, what causes the summer spike in wasp activity — and more importantly, what can you do about it?

Let’s break it down.

Why Wasp Activity Increases in Summer

Wasp colonies follow a seasonal cycle, and summer is when things really heat up — literally and biologically.

Here’s why you’re seeing more of them right now:

1. Wasp Colonies Are Peaking

By mid-to-late summer, wasp nests are at their largest. A single paper wasp or yellow jacket colony can grow to hundreds or even thousands of workers, all foraging for food, water, and nesting materials. That means more wasps out and about — and more chances they’ll end up near your home.

2. They’re Hungry — and Aggressive

Later in the season, queen wasps stop laying eggs. That leaves the worker wasps with fewer tasks and a new focus: finding sugar and protein.
Garbage cans, pet food bowls, soda spills, and even grills become hotspots. With fewer colony duties and more competition for food, they’re also more likely to become aggressive.

3. Weather Plays a Role

Hot, dry weather tends to accelerate wasp development and extend their activity window. Milder winters also allow more queens to survive and start new nests. If this year’s spring was warm and the rain didn’t knock down early colonies, you may be seeing the result now.

Where Wasps Like to Build Around Your Home

One reason wasps are such a nuisance is that they build nests in places people walk, sit, or store things. Common nesting spots include:

• Under eaves or roof overhangs 
• Inside grill covers and patio furniture 
• In mailboxes or outdoor light fixtures 
• Along fence lines or play equipment 
• Inside attic vents or crawlspace openings 

Paper wasps build open, umbrella-shaped nests, while yellow jackets typically build enclosed nests in wall voids or the ground — which can be even harder to spot.

Should You Be Concerned?

While most wasps aren’t out to sting you, they will defend their nest if they feel threatened. For homeowners with kids or pets, or for anyone with a wasp allergy, that can quickly become a serious situation.

Even without a sting, aggressive wasps buzzing around your doors, porch, or windows can make it hard to enjoy your home the way you should.

How to Prevent Wasps From Nesting

Early prevention makes a big difference. Here’s how to reduce the chances of a wasp problem:

• Seal up gaps around soffits, attic vents, and siding 
• Check regularly under eaves, deck railings, and shed overhangs 
• Keep food covered during outdoor meals 
• Rinse recyclables before putting them in bins 
• Use tight-fitting lids on trash cans 
• Avoid sweet-scented yard products like floral candles or sugary drinks left outside 

Already spotted a nest forming? Early nests are easier and safer to remove — but still best handled by a professional.

What to Do If Wasps Won’t Leave You Alone

If you’re constantly knocking down nests or feeling like wasps have taken over your porch, it’s time to bring in a pro. At Specter Pest Control, we specialize in targeted wasp treatments that:

• Safely remove existing nests 
• Use non-repellent products that eliminate colonies at the source 
• Treat common nesting zones to help prevent future activity 
• Offer seasonal plans for long-term protection 

As a family-owned company, we know what it’s like to want your home to feel safe and stress-free — especially during the summer months when you’re trying to enjoy your backyard or patio.

Don’t Let Wasps Ruin Your Summer

You shouldn’t have to tiptoe around your yard or feel trapped inside because of a buzzing nest overhead. If wasps are ruining your peace of mind, Specter Pest Control is here to help.

Schedule your free home inspection today — and reclaim your yard from unwanted guests.