If you have been dealing with the topic of wasp expulsion for a while, you have probably heard of ultrasonic devices. Such devices are intended to drive away annoying insects and rodents in the house. But does this method really work?
Can you get rid of wasps with ultrasound?
Ultrasonic devices can deter wasps from relaxation areas on patios, but they are less effective against existing nests. A high range of the device is recommended for the largest possible wasp-reduced area.
Frequency that only some hear
We call ultrasound frequencies that are above our upper auditory perception limit. However, other organisms can definitely hear such areas. Many also use ultrasound frequencies specifically for communication and orientation. These include, for example:
- Some species of whales
- Bats
- Small rodents
Whales and bats are known to emit ultrasonic tracking calls to locate obstacles or prey.
But other representatives of the animal world are also receptive to ultrasound frequencies, even if they do not use them themselves. You can still hear them. These primarily include insects. For example, some moths, mosquitoes or wasps.
Ultrasonic devices against wasp pests
The high-pitched sounds that ultrasonic devices produce are said to be particularly unpleasant for the pests they are trying to get rid of. Such devices are primarily offered against mice, rats or martens, but are less common against mosquitoes and wasps.
Effect or not?
Unfortunately, like so many other methods for getting rid of wasps, ultrasound devices do not have a monopoly on effectiveness. There are different user experiences when used against mice or martens in the attic. In order to keep the animals away early, i.e. before they have really settled in, the sounds actually seem to be a deterrent.
And this also applies to wasps: Wasps will not leave an existing nest if you install an ultrasound device directly underneath it. Their lives are far too short for that and the work put into building the nest is far too valuable.
An ultrasonic device can definitely keep the critters away from disturbing you while you relax on the terrace. But it becomes difficult when relaxing is combined with food - hungry wasps can hardly avoid a table full of open jelly jars, sausage plates and fruit cakes. In order to create as wide a wasp-reduced area around you as possible, you should ensure that the device has a long range.
Since rats, mice and other rodents such as rabbits detect ultrasonic frequencies as mentioned above, owners of these animals should avoid using ultrasonic devices to repel wasps.
