European wasps sighted for first time in 20 years in Albany as 12 nests eradicated

Several European wasp nests have been destroyed around Albany with the community urged to report any sightings of “one of the worst wasp pests in the world”.

It is the first time the invasive yellow insect has been seen in the Albany region in 20 years.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development was notified of the invasive insect after a keen-eyed member of the public sighted wasps drinking from a leaking downpipe at a Napier property.

The 12 underground wasps’ nests were discovered after DPIRD officers investigated the area and tracked the wasps’ activity.

The wasps look similar to the yellow paper wasps but have black antennae and shorter legs, which they tuck under their body when they fly.

DPIRD European wasp program manager John Van Schagen commended the member of the public who alerted the department to the sighting.

“DPIRD officers have set surveillance traps in the area, which includes blue gum plantations,” he said.

“We urge residents and businesses to be on the lookout for any unusual wasp activity and report any suspect finds to the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service.

“The European wasp is considered one of the worst wasp pests in the world — harmful to people, our outdoor lifestyle, the environment, and to our horticultural and agricultural industries.”

The European wasp program is led by DPIRD and focuses on the surveillance and eradication of the insect.

“Each year fertilised wasp queens arrive in WA as hitchhikers via freight and cargo from the Eastern States,” Mr Van Schagen said.

Reports of suspected European wasp sightings can be made via DPIRD’s MyPestGuide Reporter App, MyPestGuide online, or by contacting Pest and Disease Information on 08 9368 3030.