Home > > > Hornets & Orange Wasps in Australia: What You Need to Know

Hornets & Orange Wasps in Australia: What You Need to Know

Author : Enviro Safe Pest Control | Published On : 28 Nov 2025

Australia is home to a wide range of insects, including bees, wasps, and other stinging species. While many are harmless, some can create serious risks around homes, businesses, and outdoor areas. In recent years, more homeowners have started reporting sightings of hornets in Australia and various species referred to as the orange wasp Australia. Although true hornets are not native to the country, certain wasps can behave aggressively, build large nests, and become a major safety concern—especially for children, pets, and elderly individuals.

At Enviro Safe Pest Control, we specialise in providing safe, eco-friendly, and effective pest control Melbourne services, helping households manage wasps, bees, hornets, and other invasive insects. This guide covers everything you need to know about hornets and orange wasps in Australia—including identification, dangers, prevention, and when to call a professional.

Are There Hornets in Australia? Understanding the Confusion

Technically, true hornets (genus Vespa) are not native to Australia. However, several wasp species closely resemble hornets due to their size, colouring, and behaviour. This often leads to confusion among residents who assume they have hornets on their property.

Common insects mistaken for hornets in Australia include:

  • European Wasps (Vespula germanica) – aggressive, yellow-and-black, and known to attack in swarms.

  • Paper Wasps (Polistes species) – slimmer in appearance, often coloured red-brown or orange.

  • Mud Dauber Wasps – solitary wasps that build mud nests.

The aggressive nature of European wasps especially makes people think they are dealing with hornets. These pests multiply quickly and can create hidden nests underground, in roofs, retaining walls, and garden beds.

If you suspect hornets around your home, it’s likely one of these wasp species—and they require immediate pest control attention.

The “Orange Wasp” in Australia: What Species Is It?

Many homeowners search online for the orange wasp Australia when they notice a bright orange or reddish wasp around their garden. In most cases, this is one of the following species:

1. Australian Paper Wasp (Polistes humilis)

  • Reddish-orange or brown body

  • Builds umbrella-shaped paper nests

  • Visible around roofs, fences, and sheds

2. Orange Potter Wasp

  • Solitary wasp

  • Known for building small clay “pot-like” nests

  • Usually not aggressive unless provoked

3. European Paper Wasp

  • More aggressive

  • Black body with orange antennae

  • Builds nests inside roof cavities and wall crevices

While some orange wasps are relatively peaceful, others can become defensive quickly, especially if their nest is disturbed. Regardless of the species, wasp stings can cause allergic reactions and serious pain, so it’s important not to attempt removal yourself.

Why Wasps & Hornet-Like Species Are Dangerous

Wasps play a role in the ecosystem, but when they nest near homes or workplaces, they pose real threats. Their behaviour becomes more aggressive during warmer months, especially in Melbourne’s climate.

Key dangers include:

  • Multiple stings – Unlike bees, wasps can sting repeatedly.

  • Allergic reactions – Some individuals may suffer from anaphylaxis.

  • Aggressive defence – Disturbing a nest can trigger a swarm attack.

  • Property risk – Nests in roofs or walls can lead to structural damage.

  • Pet safety hazards – Dogs and cats can be stung if they get too close to nests.

If you notice frequent wasp activity, buzzing sounds inside walls, or visible nests, it’s best to call a pest control Melbourne expert immediately.

Why You Should Never Remove a Wasp or “Hornet” Nest Yourself

DIY wasp removal is extremely risky. Many people assume spraying insecticide or knocking down a nest will solve the issue, but this triggers aggressive swarming—which can result in serious injuries.

Common dangers of DIY removal:

  • Wasps attack in groups suddenly

  • Nest may be larger than what is visible

  • Store-bought sprays often don’t kill the queen

  • Remaining wasps rebuild nests quickly

Only trained professionals with safety suits and specialised equipment should handle wasp or hornet removal.

How Enviro Safe Pest Control Handles Wasp & Hornet Problems

At Enviro Safe Pest Control, we follow a safe, environmentally conscious technique to eliminate wasps and prevent them from returning. Our approach is designed to protect your property, your family, and local ecosystems.

1. Thorough Inspection

We identify:

  • The species

  • Nest location

  • Entry points

  • Level of infestation

Correct identification is essential because each species requires a different treatment strategy.

2. Eco-Friendly Treatment Methods

We use low-toxicity, environmentally safe methods that:

  • Kill the queen

  • Destroy the colony

  • Prevent regrowth

  • Minimise impact on beneficial insects

This makes our service safe for families, pets, and gardens.

3. Safe Nest Removal

Once the colony is eliminated, we remove the nest to prevent new wasps from occupying the same space.

4. Long-Term Prevention Solutions

We seal entry points, treat high-risk areas, and provide advice on preventing future infestations.

Signs You Need Professional Pest Control Melbourne Services

You should call a wasp removal expert if you notice:

  • Increased wasp activity around your home

  • A nest visible on the roof, wall, tree, or fence

  • Wasps entering and exiting holes in the ground

  • Loud buzzing inside wall cavities

  • Pets reacting to something hidden in your garden

  • Larger, hornet-like insects flying around your property

Wasps multiply quickly, and what begins as a small nest can turn into a dangerous colony within weeks.

How to Prevent Wasps & Hornet-Like Pests in Melbourne

A few simple steps can help reduce the risk of infestations:

1. Remove food sources

Keep outdoor eating areas clean, and secure rubbish bins.

2. Seal holes and cracks

Wasps love roof gaps, wall cracks, and fence holes.

3. Trim vegetation

Overgrown gardens provide shelter for nests.

4. Avoid sweet perfumes outdoors

These attract wasps and bees.

5. Call a professional

At the first sign of nest-building, professional intervention is safest.

Choose Enviro Safe Pest Control for Melbourne’s Best Wasp & Hornet Removal

When dealing with hornets in Australia, orange wasp Australia, or any aggressive stinging insects, you need reliable and safe solutions. At Enviro Safe Pest Control, we have years of experience helping Melbourne homeowners stay protected from these dangerous pests.

We offer:

  • Fast same-day service

  • Licensed and insured technicians

  • Eco-friendly treatments

  • Affordable pricing

  • A 100% satisfaction guarantee

If you believe there are wasps, hornets, or unknown stinging insects on your property, don’t wait. Protect your home with professional pest control Melbourne services.