At a time when bees in particular are getting a lot of attention due to their dwindling population, some people wonder whether other yellow and black striped stinging insects are also particularly protected. Are earth wasps included? Continue reading!
All insects must be protected
Earth wasps are not a species designation
In order to clarify the question of species protection, it must first be made clear that earth wasps are not a zoological species. It is a common name for wasps that nest in the ground. Wasp species that occur in this country do this from time to time, but not every year. These include the German and the common wasp, sometimes also the hornet. All these species belong to the real wasp genus. Depending on what they find, however, these species can also seek out higher-lying nesting sites such as roller shutter boxes or hollow tree trunks.
To remember:
- Common name earth wasps refers to wasp species that nest seasonally in the ground
- These include: German and common wasp and hornet
Who is under protection?
It is important to clarify whether a species of earth wasp is under legal species protection before taking action against colonization in the garden or at the house. Because the Federal Nature Conservation Act provides for five-digit fines in all federal states for willfully catching, disturbing or killing protected wild animal species. In view of the worryingly declining biodiversity on our planet, this is also urgently needed.
Of the species of wasps that can be called earth wasps because of their temporary subterranean nesting habits, only the hornets are under special protection. But even if you identify a colony of German or common wasps in your garden, you should avoid taking radical control measures if possible. The following reasons speak for this:
- Wasps are useful pest-killing insects in the garden
- An active confrontation is very dangerous
- The wasp colony only lasts from spring to autumn anyway
If you are unsure how to deal with the wasps, consult a specialist. Beekeepers or employees of nature conservation organizations can reliably identify species and, if necessary, initiate measures to remove the animals, usually in the form of nest relocation. In the case of hornets, a permit must be obtained before such an undertaking because of species protection. Reasons that also allow removal of protected species can be a proven insect venom allergy or small children living in the household.