You’re outside enjoying a cold drink and the sweet smell of spring blooms when it happens—bzzz. That unmistakable hum of wings zipping past your ear sends you into immediate alert. You look around, and sure enough, wasps have made themselves comfortable in your yard.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. At Action Pest, we get a spike in service calls every spring and summer from homeowners seeking professional wasp control in Burlington. Whether it’s a new nest forming under the eaves or a full-blown backyard infestation, wasps are unwelcome—and potentially dangerous—guests.

So what exactly attracts wasps in Burlington yards? And how can you keep them from turning your outdoor space into their personal landing strip? Let’s break it down.

  1. Sweet Drinks, Fruit Scraps & Summer Treats

Wasps love sugar. And your backyard in the warmer months? It’s like an open buffet. From spilled soda and fruit juice to fallen apples from fruit trees or leftovers in the compost bin, sweet smells are irresistible to wasps.

Outdoor garbage bins, unsealed recycling, and sticky patio tables also lure them in. The more sugar-rich materials they find, the more likely they are to stick around—and invite others.

If you’re hosting backyard gatherings in Burlington, make it a habit to:

  • Rinse out recyclables
  • Keep drinks covered
  • Empty outdoor trash frequently
  • Hose down surfaces where food is served

These simple changes make a huge difference when we’re providing wasp control in Burlington.

  1. Protein-Rich BBQs and Unwashed Grills

Think it’s only sweets? Think again. Wasps also seek out protein—especially during the early months of colony development. Open meat packages, dripping BBQs, and uncovered leftovers are prime attractants.

We often hear from Burlington homeowners who were swarmed during a cookout, only to discover that wasps had been drawn in by residue on the grill or scraps left behind from previous meals.

To reduce this attraction:

  • Clean your BBQ after every use
  • Store meats and fish indoors until ready to cook
  • Cover all food when eating outside
  1. Ideal Nesting Conditions Around Your Home

While food attracts wasps temporarily, nesting conditions make them stay. Wasps look for dry, protected spaces to build their papery homes—think soffits, overhangs, sheds, garage ceilings, and deck undersides.

Paper wasps in particular reuse familiar nesting sites. If your home has had wasps before, they’re more likely to return unless the site is treated and entry points are sealed. We frequently see this pattern during wasp nest removal in Burlington.

Early detection is key. Keep an eye out for:

  • Small paper nests in early spring
  • Wasps consistently entering a crevice or structure
  • Chewed wood or debris near eaves or decks
  1. Standing Water and Moisture

Water sources—birdbaths, clogged gutters, pet bowls—aren’t just attracting birds or your neighbour’s cat. Wasps need hydration, too, and stagnant water makes an ideal supply.

Water also softens untreated wood, giving wasps easy access to pulp for nest construction. During wasp control in Burlington, we often find nests near leaky faucets, downspouts, or unsealed soffits holding moisture.

Tip: Fix leaks, clear drains, and avoid pooling water near your foundation to make your property less appealing.

  1. Bright Colours and Floral Scents

Your garden may be a source of joy—but to wasps, it’s an oasis. Fragrant flowers and bright-coloured patio furniture can draw them in. They may even mistake floral perfumes or colourful clothing as cues to investigate.

While we’d never suggest giving up your garden, you can be strategic with placement. Avoid planting heavily scented flowers right next to your main entrance or near dining areas. Consider adding natural deterrents like basil, eucalyptus, or mint.

Don’t Try to Remove Wasps Alone

A quick spray may seem like a solution, but attacking a wasp nest—especially without protective gear—can be dangerous. Wasps are aggressive defenders and some species, like hornets, will pursue anyone who disturbs their home.

If you spot a nest or suspect an infestation, don’t risk it. Trust the professionals for wasp nest removal in Burlington. At Action Pest, our technicians use safe, regulated products and strategic methods to remove nests without triggering swarms or risking your family’s safety.

Call Action Pest for Wasp Control in Burlington

Don’t let buzzing pests ruin your outdoor season. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or just want to enjoy your garden in peace, Action Pest is here to help.

📞 Call 905.318.1242 or visit 🌐 actionpest.ca

Your local experts in wasp control in Burlington—protecting homes with safe, professional pest removal and prevention.