Aussies react to 'extraordinary' detail in viral wasp video
The Melbourne man decided to take things into his own (very 'stylish') hands.
After discovering an very active wasp nest tucked against the corner of his home, one enterprising Aussie decided to approach the problem with a bowl of petrol and a rather colourful outfit – much to the confused delight of those who watched on. But despite the comical nature of the scene, professional exterminators warn the man is lucky it didn't end badly for him.
Will found the unwelcome visitors on his property in Melbourne and was filmed trying to get rid of them in a video that has now been watched more than 12 million times.
In the viral clip, he can be seen hanging onto a fence while holding the bowl of petrol before tentatively stepping towards the nest which is situated on the roof outside the home. In one swift motion he places the bowl around the nest, with most of the insects trapped inside.
In the footage Will swats away a few stray wasps from his face which is protected by a hot pink balaclava, bright orange sunnies and a red scarf which is tied around his neck. After several tense seconds, the nest plops into the bowl and he steps down, seemingly rather pleased with himself.
Aussies respond to unusual wasp killing, outfit
After the footage was posted online many questioned his approach but overwhelmingly praised his "stylish" attire, making fun of his makeshift protective gear.
"Slay the wasps while you slay with your fit," one joked, while another labelled the "PPE" as "extraordinary".
"Not all heroes capes. Some wear pink ski masks," a third joked.
TikTok wasp removal 'trend' branded dangerous
Over the last couple of months there have been many videos on TikTok of people using this approach to kill wasps and get rid of their nest. Using a container which is half-full of petrol is intended to envelop the wasps with toxic fumes, which eventually kills them.
Reacting to the trend, ABC Pest Control's Warren Bailey remarked to Yahoo those who try such a method "are very lucky they don't get stung".
Entomologist Dr Tom White from the University of Sydney also warned against the approach as petrol is an "extremely volatile liquid" and is dangerous for those who handle it, never mind being stung by the wasps if they feel threatened.
"Most wasps pose no harm, and will just be working to keep your yard free of potential pests. Even the 'aggressive' species like European or paper wasps will only kick off if they’re threatened or disturbed," Dr White told Yahoo last month.
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He urged people to leave wasps alone where possible given they are doing a "valuable job" in our ecosystems. If removal is desired, a pest control expert can be called or there are selective products which target wasps without harsh chemicals.
"Look for selective wasp-targeted traps, sprays, or powders, rather than broad-spectrum chemicals like pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, which have broader environmental impacts and do more harm than good," he said.
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