|
| How to identify the difference between European wasps and bees, and what to do if you find an infestation in Knox. | |
| What's the Difference? | | European Wasps
European wasps are approximately 15-25 mm in length and have bright yellow and black stripes on their back half with black dots between the stripes, down each side of the abdomen. They also have bright yellow legs and have longer, thicker antennae than bees.
European wasps can nest in various locations including wall, ceiling and tree cavities however the most likely place to find a European wasp nest is in the ground.
European wasp nests are easily sighted by the constant activity going to and from the nest and particularly just above the nest however the entrance to the nest may be well hidden.
Visit the CSIRO website for more general information about European wasps.
Bees
Bees are approximately 15 mm in length and display a dull shade of yellow or a golden brown colour and have black stripes around their body. They have black legs, unlike the European wasps that have yellow legs.
Bees often nest in tree or wall cavities and can nest in compost bins. Bees, unlike European wasps, are generally not aggressive and will go about their day to day activities unless they feel threatened or are under attack. Try to stay away from the path of swarming bees or wasps.
For more information on wasp and bee identification, you can contact the CSIRO on 1300 363 400.
| |
| What to do about Wasps and Bees on Council Property | | If you locate a wasp nest or bee hive on Council property ie: public parks, walkways, nature strips and reserves and you believe it poses a risk to the public you should report them by contacting Knox Council’s Parks Services on 9298 8000.
Bee image courtesy of Ken Walker: Museum Victoria
| |
| What to do about Wasps and Bees on Private Property | | Council does not treat wasp nests or bee hives on private property.
Bee hives can be removed by a registered apiarist if it is hanging from a tree or shrub however if the hive is located in a log or a wall cavity, eradication will be required by a licensed pest controller. You can contact the Victorian Apiarists Association on 5446 1455 to locate a qualified apiarist in your area or through the Yellow Pages.
If you have found a wasp nest on your property it is recommended that you contact a licensed pest controller from the Yellow Pages to treat the nest. If you are confident enough to treat the nest yourself there are a number of products available through hardware stores or supermarkets. You are always advised to carefully read and follow any product instructions. DO NOT treat a wasp nest yourself if you are allergic to wasp or bee stings. For detailed instructions on how to treat wasp nests an information brochure titled ‘Living with European Wasps’ is available from Knox Council’s Health Services on 9298 8000 or from the Department of Primary Industries on 136 186.
Wasp image courtesy of Ken Walker: Museum Victoria
| |
| What to do about Wasps and Bees Located on Power Poles | | For wasp nests or bee hives located in or on power poles please contact SP Ausnet on 13 17 99.
| |
| Bee Keeping in Victoria | | To keep bees in Victoria, you must register with the Department of Primary Industries and comply with the Apiary Code of Practice. There are strict guidelines for keeping bees in Victoria and you should always be mindful that bees can often become a concern for neighbours. For more information about bee keeping in Victoria contact the Department of Primary Industries on 13 61 86. You can obtain a copy of the Apiary Code of Practice by visiting the Department of Sustainability and Environment or telephone 13 61 36.
| |
|
 | | |
|