How to Get Rid of Wasps and Hornets

Spring, summer, and autumn are gorgeous seasons, ideal for spending time outdoors enjoying fresh air, sunshine, and moderate to warm temperatures. Unfortunately, these same seasons also usher in the increased risk of encountering certain pests, including hornets and wasps.

These stinging insects can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. Some species of hornets and wasps are aggressive, stinging humans and other animals without being provoked. Less aggressive species will still attack when they feel threatened or if the nest is threatened. Even worse, many are social wasps or hornets that release pheromones to alert others to come join in the action.

Wasps and hornets send more than 500,000 people to the emergency room every year. With a single nest potentially containing as many as 15,000 insects, you should always approach these stinging insects with caution.

So, what do you do if you find a nest? Spoiler alert: You don’t swat it or try DIY methods that could leave you facing an angry mob of insects. The safest, most effective option is to call for professional wasp nest removal and schedule preventive services to keep outdoor spaces free of hornets and wasps.

What Does a Wasp Nest Look Like?

Hornets and wasps build nests that look very similar with a paper-like exterior. Depending on the insect, nests may be round, umbrella-shaped, or oval.

Hornet nests are typically gray or tan, with an outer covering, single entrance, and hexagonal-shaped combs inside. Hornets make their nests from wood pulp and saliva and tend to build larger nests with enough space to accommodate 200 to 400 hornets, on average.

On the other hand, wasp nests are typically made of mud or a papery material and are usually smaller with enough space for approximately 25 insects. The color of the nests can range from golden to grayish brown.

The National Pest Management Association recommends that businesses and homeowners provide frequent inspections in common nesting locations. Places to check include:

Under eaves or ceiling beams in barns, sheds, garages, and attics
Under porches and inside wall voids
On tree limbs, dense shrubbery, and overhangs
Under rocks, fallen limbs, or concrete slabs
Behind shutters, light fixtures, or mailboxes
Inside children’s toys, play sets, and grills

How Can I Tell If It’s an Active Nest?

Observing the nest is the best way to determine if it’s active or not. Watching for hornets or wasps flying in or out of the nest during the day or early evening can help you determine if it’s an old nest or a new problem that needs to be handled. You may also be able to tell based on the size of the nest and the time of year. Wasps and hornets don’t reuse their nests, so if you find a large one in spring or early summer, it’s probably a nest from the previous year.

When Are Wasps Active?

Wasps are typically active in spring, summer, and autumn, with late summer and autumn being peak seasons for activity. Hornet and wasp populations are usually highest toward the end of summer. Additionally, they often start preparing for the upcoming cold weather by scavenging for food at that time.

It’s also notable that wasps and hornets tend to be active during the day when they head out of the nest to find food sources. At night, they usually remain inside the nest with minimal activity.

What Should I Do If I Find a Wasp Nest?

These pests are often feared for their painful stings, but they also play an essential role in the ecosystem. Hornets and wasps are effective pollinators that help keep plants and crops healthy and thriving. Many species also feed on other insects, which can provide natural control of plant-destroying pests.

For that reason alone, many businesses and homeowners opt to leave nests they find alone and simply avoid them. However, others want or need to remove wasps and hornets from the premises to protect their pets and loved ones.

At the end of the day, DIY methods like planting eucalyptus and spraying wasps with vinegar increase the risk of getting stung. Additionally, using the wrong products can have harmful effects on other insects, pets, and people. If you end up getting stung, the experience is not only painful but could trigger an allergic reaction.

Professional wasp control and nest removal is the safest, most effective, and environmentally friendly option. Technicians identify the insects and provide tailored treatments. More importantly, pros have the education, techniques, and equipment needed to eliminate the risk to you and anyone else in the area.

Professional Wasp Nest Removal and Control

Catseye Pest Control can provide professional wasp nest removal, hornet and wasp control services, and preventive treatments. Keep your home or business safe while minimizing the risk that you or someone else on the property could get a nasty sting.

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