Overview

• This year’s spring was the driest in roughly 50 years, creating ideal breeding conditions that have driven record wasp numbers at the Norfolk estate.
• Estate staff have sealed and cloth-covered rubbish bins around Sandringham House and gardens to reduce attractants for the insects.
• Notices reading “Please be aware that wasp activity is currently high in this area” have been displayed across the 20,000-acre grounds to alert visitors.
• Pest control contractors and a specialist beekeeper have removed at least three nests at the Royal Stud and continue proactive nest searches elsewhere on the property.
• Plastic catchers have been installed to trap and relocate wasps off-site and NHS guidance on cleaning and treating stings is being shared with guests.