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What Happens if You Ignore a Wasp’s Nest?

by | Sep 8, 2025 | Aspen Pest Control | 0 comments

What Happens if You Ignore a Wasp’s Nest?

Introduction: The Risks of Leaving a Wasp Nest Untended

Finding a wasp nest on your property can be intimidating, but leaving it unchecked could lead to bigger problems. Here’s what could happen if you ignore a wasp nest.

Increased Size of the Nest

Wasp nests continue to grow as the season progresses. If left untreated, a nest can become significantly larger, potentially housing 50-100 wasps. While wasps are generally non-aggressive, their nests can become a danger if disturbed.

Damage to Property

Although wasps don’t typically damage structures like yellow jackets, which can infest walls or crawl spaces, their nests can cause minor cosmetic issues. The sticky paper mixture used to build their nests may leave residue when removed.

Aggression

While wasps aren’t usually as aggressive as yellow jackets, they may still sting if they feel threatened. Ignoring a nest can put you and your family at risk of an unpleasant encounter.

Will Wasps Leave on Their Own?

Wasps will typically abandon their nests in winter, as the colony dies off. However, waiting for them to leave on their own can take months, and in the meantime, the nest will continue to grow.

Small Ants & Sugar Ants Pest Control in Portland OR and Vancouver WA

Sugar Ant Description

Size

The sugar ant is very small—measuring about 2.4-3.3mm long. They are typically about as small as a pencil eraser. Although they are small, they quickly become noticeable as they swarm around food or stream through your home in a line. 

Color

Sugar ants are typically black in color.

Smell

This might sound strange, but when crushed, sugar ants release an unpleasant, coconut-smelling odor. Sugar ants have a gland that releases this smell and it’s why they are called the odorous house ant.

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