Experts have warned that the UK is experiencing a "wasp boom" in 2025 as the insects enter the "most volatile" stage of the season.
The spring of 2025 was the warmest and sunniest on record, according to the Met Office.
This warmer weather has resulted in an increase in wasp numbers across the UK this summer.
How to get rid of these common garden pests
BBC Countryfile explained: "Normally, cooler, wetter springs interrupt wasp colony establishment by wiping out young workers.
"But this year’s weather allowed more to survive, including queens, which meant nests could be created ahead of schedule.
"The result this summer is an increase in both the number and size of colonies compared with previous years.
"Not only does this mean the black and yellow insects are here earlier than normal, but in greater numbers, too."
Why is this "wasp boom" good for the UK?
While the increased presence of wasps this summer may be annoying for some, it is actually a positive when it comes to the UK's ecosystem.
Here's why #wasps are actually rather brilliant https://t.co/fWIdJ2LeXG
— Countryfile Magazine (@CountryfileMag) August 10, 2022
The Wildlife Trusts said: "Despite their unfortunate reputation, wasps are actually important pollinators and pest controllers."
The experts added: "Many of our often-overlooked insects are important pollinators for all kinds of plants, including those which we rely on like fruit trees."
When is 'wasp season' in the UK?
You can expect to see this increased presence of wasps in the UK for a little while longer.
Wasps are seasonal insects, according to Project Multi Pest (PMP), and are most active from spring through to early autumn.
PMP said: "These insects enjoy warm weather, so you can rest assured that once autumn starts to fully set in, you will not see the insects until the following spring."
The first sighting of wasps usually takes place towards the end of March/beginning of April each year, as the queens start to emerge.
By June, wasp season is "fully underway", PMP continues, with stings becoming more common.
"But it is mid to late summer in August and September when wasp behaviour becomes the most volatile," the pest experts add.
Just prior to the end of the season, there is an increase in "free-roaming" wasps, which Brits are warned can be slightly more aggressive.
What time of the year do wasps die?
Wasps, apart from the queens, will then begin to die off as soon as temperatures in the UK reach 0°C (or below).
PMP said: "Once wasps die, you can also expect all nests to be completely abandoned."
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How to identify a wasp
Common wasps are identifiable by their "black-and yellow-striped body, with an obvious 'waist' between the thorax and abdomen", The Wildlife Trusts explains.
"It [also] has a characteristic black 'anchor' mark on its face," the group adds.
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