Questions: Other

Wasps are incredibly beneficial to mankind.

They serve as nature's ultimate pest control by hunting massive numbers of crop damaging insects, protecting agriculture and gardens from pests, and reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

Additionally they pollinate flowers and fruit trees.

Wasps are also being researched to aid cancer, with their venom's ability to target cancer cells without harming healthy cells.

Wasps help the ecological balance, being scavengers, they aid in decomposition and provide essential protein in the food chain for birds etc.

Wasps possess surprising cognitive abilities that extend far beyond simple instinct, and certain species can recognise and remember individual faces in humans and their own species, similar to humans.

Wasps can apply logical reasoning to situations, and are able to learn and adapt.

Scientists studying these insects suggest that dealing with the complexities of social living, rather than just finding food, has driven the evolution of their advanced cognitive skills.

Wasps do not go out of their way to harm humans, but will become defensive and attack if they feel threatened, trapped or if you get too close to their nests.

Swatting and fast or jerky movements at a wasp is viewed by the insect as a direct attack, which will often prompt them to sting.

If a wasp is crushed or panics, it releases a chemical alarm pheromone that can cause nearby colony members to join in.

Unlike bees, wasps can sting you multiple times in quick succession without dying, and while a sting usually results in temporary localised pain and swelling, multiple stings or an allergic reaction can be very serious, and you should seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms of difficulty breathing, severe swelling, or dizziness.

If you are stung clean the site with warm water and soap, apply cold commpress, take painkillers or antihistamine to mitigate itching and inflammation.