There are plenty of reasons why you should not leave a hornet nest in your yard. Once you understand the dangers these insects pose, you will see why prompt action is necessary. Let’s learn more about them and identify safe hornet removal strategies that will keep them out for good.
About Hornets
Hornets are large wasps belonging to the Vespidae family, typically brown or black with yellow streaks. They closely resemble yellow jackets and are closely related. The main difference is that while yellow jackets usually build their nests underground, hornets create theirs above ground.
They are social insects living in colonies that revolve around a queen, the only female responsible for reproduction. Each colony has a caste system of worker bees and drones.
Worker bees are females that develop from fertilized eggs and handle feeding the colony, protecting the nest, and expanding it. The queen’s unfertilized eggs develop into drones, males whose primary role is to mate with the queen. Hornets often make their nests in secluded areas within walls, in attics, and garages – away from human activity and the elements.
Signs of a Hornet Infestation in Your House
The most obvious sign of a hornet infestation is the presence of a nest. A hornet nest has a characteristic papery appearance created by mixing wood pulp and saliva. Workers chew wood to collect fibers and then combine them with saliva to form a paste that hardens into a paper-like substance.
Nests start with small cells and gradually expand as the colony grows. Over time, they develop into intricate structures with comb-like cells inside and a smooth paper-like surface featuring swirling patterns. They enter and exit the nest through a small, round hole at the bottom or side of the nest.
Are Hornets Dangerous?
When they feel threatened, hornets become aggressive and they can sting multiple times. Their stings contain a high concentration of venom, which can trigger severe allergic reactions, and in some cases, be life-threatening. Even for those without allergies, multiple stings can pose a serious health risk.
Hornet stings are particularly painful because they inject more venom per sting than any other stinging insect. The pain can last up to two hours before it begins to subside.
In addition to health risks, hornets can cause structural damage to your home. They chew wood fibers to build their nests, which can damage wood surfaces over time. Large nests can also weigh down structures, causing deterioration. Hornet nests may attract pests like woodpeckers, which can further damage your home as they peck at the nest to extract larvae.
Removal Strategy for Hornets
Some homeowners attempt to capture hornets using traps, typically by placing a sweet liquid bait in a plastic bottle. Adding a few drops of dish soap to the bait helps break the surface tension, preventing the hornets from escaping once they land. However, this method is highly ineffective for large infestations and only captures a few hornets at a time.
Why Choose Professional Hornets Removal?
Professional hornet removal experts are trained to eliminate these pests safely and efficiently. They use proven methods to handle hornet infestations without causing harm to the insects or posing risk to your household. Professionals also implement exclusion strategies to keep hornets from returning, providing long-term protection.
If you discover a hornet nest, contact Rid-A-Critter today for prompt and safe hornet removal services. Keep your home and loved ones safe with our humane pest control solutions.