Increase in Wasp Populations Leads to Rising Extermination Calls in Calgary

Calgary is experiencing a notable increase in adult wasp populations this August, causing a surge in extermination requests and pest control product sales.

Manny Aulakh, a pest control technician with Ultra Pest Control, reported that he has never received as many inquiries about wasps as this year. He emphasized that although wasp issues are more pronounced in Edmonton, he averages about ten calls a day regarding wasp control in Calgary.

As summer progresses, it is common for wasp colonies to grow larger. By late summer, the adult insects born in spring reach peak numbers, resulting in increased competition for food. This competition can lead to heightened aggression levels among wasps, making stings more likely for humans.

Representatives from Home Depot and Canadian Tire have confirmed to Postmedia that their stores have seen a rise in the sales of insect repellent and pest control products, as residents of Calgary seek solutions to manage wasp infestations.

Lincoln Poulin, president of Poulin’s Pest Control, noted that calls for wasp nest removals typically spike in late summer. His Calgary branch is currently handling ten to fifteen calls per day related to this problem.

According to Poulin, the wasp problem may begin in July, but it becomes more apparent in August as the nests grow larger. He indicated that the August long weekend marks the point when calls for assistance begin to increase significantly.

The upsurge in wasp population is suspected to be linked to migration patterns, with Aulakh suggesting that many wasps have moved east from the mountains to urban areas. He expressed concern over this year’s influx compared to previous years, hoping for fewer wildfires next year to reduce the movement of wasps into residential spaces.

In handling wasp nests, Aulakh typically wears protective gear and uses specialized pesticides that are available only to licensed pest control companies. He eliminates the wasps before safely removing the nest to prevent future infestations.

While wasps are primarily regarded as a nuisance, Aulakh acknowledged that their stings can pose serious health risks, especially for individuals with allergic reactions.

Unlike honeybees, which play a crucial role in ecosystems, Aulakh highlighted that wasps can exhibit aggressive behavior, further justifying the need for their removal.