How to distinguish the South African Paper Wasp and Cape Honey Bee from the German Wasp and European Paper Wasp. Photo: City of Cape Town.
Cape Town wasp problem: How to call Invasive Species Unit
The City of Cape Town is doubling the size of its Invasive Species Unit in order to tackle an influx of German Wasps and European Paper Wasps.
How to distinguish the South African Paper Wasp and Cape Honey Bee from the German Wasp and European Paper Wasp. Photo: City of Cape Town.
The City of Cape Town said the metropolitan area is currently facing an invasion of German Wasps and European Paper Wasps due to the hot summer temperatures. The City is encouraging residents to report sightings so that the Invasive Species Unit can help with the removal of the pests.
CAPE TOWN FACES WASP INVASION
The City of Cape Town said it usually has four operational teams in the Invasive Species Unit to assist with wasp removal across the metro but because of the significant increase in wasp reports, the City will add another four teams to shorten the turnaround time by Friday, 4 March.
“The City has a special online reporting tool where residents can report wasp sightings. I urge residents to please sign up and to report the sightings of these invasive wasps so that we can take action.
“This service is free of charge, however, those who cannot wait for the City’s operations team can also make use of a professional service provider,” said MayCo Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews.
HOW TO SIGN UP FOR HELP FROM INVASIVE SPECIES UNIT
The Invasive Species Unit responds to residents on a first-come-first-serve basis. For assistance, residents must sign up to the spotter network at www.capetowninvasives.org.za and log the sighting, along with the date and location/locality.
Sightings can also be reported via telephone at 021-444-9835.
The City said the wasps are mostly spread by accidental human-aided transport of hibernating queens or active hives.
“In urban areas, the German Wasp and European Paper Wasp have the potential to become a serious pest and annoyance to humans. German Wasps are pests of stone fruit and grape cultures, and enemies to the honey industry as they hunt and kill honeybees,” said the City.
