How can you tell if a wasp nest is active?

“I've spotted a nest on my property. How can I tell if it's active or empty?”

It sounds obvious, but the clearest sign of an active wasp nest is wasps coming and going. Watch the nest from a safe distance for a few minutes, and if you see regular movement around the entrance, the colony is almost certainly still active. You may also hear a low buzzing sound from inside the nest, even if you can't see much activity from the outside.

A dormant or abandoned nest will show no wasp movement at all, and the structure itself may look weathered, grey, or damaged. In late fall and winter, most nests will be empty because the colony has died off, and only mated queens survive, tucked away somewhere sheltered to wait out the cold. If you're unsure, the safest approach is to observe from a distance rather than get close.

How long does a wasp nest last?

A typical wasp nest lasts around four to six months, from spring through to early fall. A new queen starts building in spring, the colony grows through summer, and by late fall, the workers and male wasps die off. After that point, the nest is abandoned for good. Wasps don't overwinter in their nests, and the structure itself won't be reused the following year.

That said, it's still worth removing an old nest. A weathered nest can attract other pests, and a sheltered spot that housed a nest once may appeal to a new queen come spring. Our technicians can safely remove old or active nests and help you identify any spots on your property that may be at risk. Find out more about getting rid of wasp nests and what to expect from a professional removal.