Seeing a wasp or bee struggling on the ground can evoke mixed emotions. While our first instinct may be to eliminate the potential sting threat, taking a moment to help an ailing pollinator can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips on how to safely assist a dying wasp or bee.
Assess the Situation
The first step is to closely observe the insect to determine if it is actually in distress or just resting. A healthy wasp or bee will appear alert and may fly off if you approach. One that is dying may move slowly or erratically, have trouble flying, or be motionless. Also watch for signs of injury like a damaged wing or leg, or a swollen abdomen.
Keep your distance to avoid getting stung by an insect that still has some fight left! Only attempt to help if you can do so safely without undue risk of being stung.
Create a Safe Space
If the wasp or bee is inside, gently guide it onto a sheet of paper or flat surface using a piece of cardboard. Avoid touching it directly. Then move it away from high traffic areas to a quiet spot.
If you find an ailing wasp or bee outside you can create a protected area by placing a overturned cup or bowl over it. This gets it off the ground and out of harm’s way. Just be sure not to trap it fully inside. Prop up one edge of the cover to allow fresh air flow.
Offer Sustenance
Like us, insects need food and water to survive Offer the ailing wasp or bee a rejuvenating sugar boost Mix up a solution of sugar or honey and water. Place a small drop near, but not directly on, the insect. Ideally use an eye dropper, toothpick, or disposable utensil to avoid contact.
If possible, try to position the drop so that it contacts the mouthparts or antennae to encourage feeding. Give the insect time to ingest the fuel. You may need to reapply the solution periodically. The sugar will help provide much-needed energy.
Keep It Warm
Insects cannot regulate their body temperature. Exposure to cold can quickly sap their already depleted energy reserves. If attempting to revive a wasp or bee on a cool day, create a warm spot using a lamp or other gentle heat source positioned nearby but not directly touching it. The added warmth can help boost its chances.
Allow Time to Recuperate
Be patient and give the ailing insect sufficient time to digest the sugar water, warm up, and regain its strength. Watch for signs of recovery like increased movement, alertness, grooming, or flying attempts. This process could take anywhere from 10 minutes up to a few hours.
Check on its status periodically, but avoid excessive disruption. If there is no improvement after a long wait, the wasp or bee likely has an underlying issue beyond what basic first aid can remedy.
Release Back Outside
Once the wasp or bee appears re-energized and able to fly competently, carefully relocate it back outside. Use your cardboard guide to gently encourage it onto a flower, leaf, or other safe landing spot. This gives it the best chance to go on its way.
While not every rescue attempt may succeed, a few thoughtful actions on our part can go a long way toward potentially saving an important pollinator. Always exercise extreme care when working in close proximity to stinging insects. But consider lending a careful helping hand next time you encounter a wasp or bee in need. Your efforts could make all the difference!
How to save a wasp (works with bees as well)
FAQ
How to help a dead wasp?
Why is a wasp not moving?
Should you save wasps?
How do you kill a wasp?
The soap and water will kill the wasp. If the wasp doesn’t die instantly, it should die in the next 5-30 seconds. The soap clogs their pores and makes it impossible for the wasp to breathe or move. Smack the wasp with a flyswatter to kill it. This is risky option unless you think you can manage it in one swipe.
How long does a wasp sting last?
A wasp sting typically lasts for a few hours to a few days. Initially, there is a sharp pain, followed by redness, swelling, and itching at the sting site. Most symptoms gradually improve over the first 24 hours. However, in some cases, individuals may experience lingering discomfort or localized swelling for a few days. Severe allergic reactions can occur, leading to more prolonged and serious symptoms, which require immediate medical attention. If you suspect an allergic reaction or if the symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical help promptly.
Are there dead wasps in your home?
Dying wasp behavior. Lethargic wasps in your home are either dead male wasps or hibernating female wasps. Most of these occurrences can happen during the winter months. The sightings alert you to the existence of a nest close by around your home.
How long does it take a wasp to die?
However, if they have a nest somewhere indoors it can be anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If they are trapped in more of an outdoor setting then up to two days will pass before they succumb because normally all wasps have left after that point since there’s nowhere for them to go. How to Get Rid of Lethargic Wasps in Your House?