Why Wasps Gather Around Outdoor Food and Garbage

Sweet drinks and meat attract wasps, especially later in the season.

The short answer

Wasps feed on sugars and protein. Cover food and drinks, keep bins closed, clean spills, and don't swat. Place bins away from seating. Remove nearby nests.

Reduce

1. Cover food and drinks.
2. Close bins and clean them.
3. Clean spills promptly.
4. Move bins away from seating.
5. Remove nearby nests.

Stay calm

• Don't swat.
• Move away slowly.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Why more in late season?

Colonies shift to sweet foods.

Do traps help?

Slightly.

Is perfume an attractant?

Strong scents can attract.

Should I drink from open cans?

Check first.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on bee and wasp control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full bee and wasp control guide for Bangalore.