Bees and wasps are some of the most misunderstood creatures we share our environment with. We understand that many people can be dangerously allergic to a bee sting and we don’t take that lightly! But know that unprovoked bees and wasps have no intention of stinging and much prefer to leave you be.
Although you may be inclined to dislike wasps, they provide environmental good by providing us with pest control. Without them, we would see a rise in the usage of chemical pesticides, which kill bee populations. Although not as efficient as bees, wasps also provide pollination.
Because these insects are part of an important category of creature called pollinators, they’re invaluable to our ecosystem. As such, please don’t kill them or destroy their nests. Instead, always call a bee keeper or local professional for assistance. Some will even relocate hives and nests free of charge, and without harming them! But even a small fee is worth it to protect this limited resource.
Here are some natural and effective ways to deter bees and wasps from buzzing around your space:
- Bees don’t like cinnamon or garlic powder, so sprinkling some around an area for about a week will let them know to keep away.
- Alternatively, you could also opt to crush some garlic cloves and mix with water to create a spray.
- Make a spray with peppermint oil, soap, and water.
You might see vinegar listed as a way to rid your home of bees, but please refrain from using this as it will instantly kill them. You can look here for a list of plants and herbs you can grow that will deter bees and wasps.
Some other things to note: wasps only use their nests for a single season. If the nest is not in an area where it’s causing harm or in the direct path of people or pets, it’s best to leave it. It will be abandoned at the end of summer. Any nests that are already empty can be removed. They are not reused year after year.
Please note: Humane Action Pittsburgh (HAP) is not a wildlife rescue and is unable to address concerns or assist with wildlife emergencies. Please utilize the resources on our website to find the appropriate organization to contact. Submissions to HAP through our contact form or email will not be able to be addressed.