Hornet Nest Removal Techniques: What Works and What to Avoid

Brett Munson • Feb 07, 2024

Hornets, being aggressive creatures, pose a significant threat when their nests are disturbed. Their painful sting can even prove lethal in cases of severe allergic reactions. Thus, it's crucial to approach hornet nest removal with caution and knowledge. This blog post will guide you through the safe and effective techniques for hornet nest removal, highlight what practices to avoid for your safety, and provide tips on preventing future infestations. Let's navigate this prickly problem together.



Recognizing a Hornet Infestation

Before you can tackle hornet nest removal, it's crucial to recognize the signs of an infestation. Look for nests in trees, bushes, under eaves, or even inside your home's walls. The nests are typically large, grayish, and have a papery appearance. You may also notice an increased number of hornets around your property, which is a clear sign of a nearby nest.

What to Avoid When Dealing With Hornet Nests

Do Not Disturb the Nest

Never attempt to remove a hornet nest without a plan. Disturbing the nest can provoke the hornets, leading them to attack in defense of their home.

Avoid Using Fire or Water

Despite what some may believe, using fire or water to destroy a nest is not only ineffective but also dangerous. You risk injury to yourself and can potentially damage your property.

Refrain from Sealing Entry Points

If hornets have built their nest inside your home, you might be tempted to seal off their entry points. However, this can cause the hornets to chew through other parts of your home, leading to more extensive damage.

Safe Hornet Nest Removal Techniques

Contacting Pest Control Professionals

The safest way to handle hornet nest removal is by hiring pest control professionals. They have the training, equipment, and experience to do the job safely and effectively. This method is particularly recommended if the nest is large or hard to reach.

Using Insecticide Spray

If you decide to handle the infestation yourself, use an aerosol insecticide designed for wasps and hornets. These sprays often have a long-range, allowing you to spray the nest from a safe distance. Always wear protective clothing and approach the nest slowly and quietly to avoid agitating the hornets.

Utilizing Traps

Another effective technique is using hornet traps. These traps lure hornets in with bait and then trap them inside, reducing the population over time. However, this method is best used as a preventative measure or for small infestations.

What is the Best Thing to Keep Hornets Away?

Dealing with a hornet infestation can be quite a challenge, but preventing one is significantly more manageable. Here are some of the best strategies to keep hornets away from your property:

Maintain a Clean Surrounding

Hornets are attracted to food sources like trash and fallen fruits. Regularly cleaning up your yard, sealing your garbage bins, and removing any potential food sources can discourage hornets from setting up their nest in your area.

Plant Repellent Plants

Certain plants are known to repel hornets due to their strong smell. Wormwood, mint, and citronella are examples of such plants. Planting these around your property can help deter hornets from making your home their own.

Install Decoy Nests

Hornets are territorial creatures and tend not to build a nest near another one. Installing decoy nests around your property can trick hornets into thinking the area is already occupied, thereby keeping them at bay.

Use Essential Oils

Essential oils like peppermint and clove have been found to repel hornets. You can make a homemade repellent by mixing these oils with water and spraying it around your property. However, this needs to be done regularly for it to be effective.

Professional Preventative Treatments

Pest control professionals offer preventative treatments that can effectively keep hornets and other pests away. If you're in an area prone to hornet infestations, this might be a worthwhile investment.

While these strategies can significantly reduce the likelihood of a hornet infestation, none are 100% foolproof. Regular monitoring of your property is essential to detect any early signs of an infestation and address it promptly. Remember, when dealing with hornets, prevention is always better than cure.

Safe and Effective Hornet Nest Removal: Choose the Best Route

Hornet nest removal requires careful consideration. While there are methods you can employ yourself, professional intervention is often the safest and most effective route. Remember, safety should always be your priority when dealing with hornet infestations.

Don't wait until a hornet infestation becomes an unbearable problem. Contact Pelican Pest Control today! Our experienced team specializes in Hornet Nest & Infestation Removal, ensuring not only the elimination of the immediate threat but also implementing preventive measures to keep your property pest-free in the future. Why risk safety when professional help is just one call away? Choose Pelican Pest Control for swift and safe hornet nest removal. We prioritize your peace of mind. Call us now!


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