Hornet Control and Removal Around Your Home

The Difference Between Bees, Wasps, and Hornets

Bees, wasps, and hornets are all flying insects, but they are distinct species with unique characteristics. There is much confusion around what categories each one should fit into, but entomologists have it down to a science. Hornets are a type of wasp, but they’re not bees.

Bees are typically rounder and fuzzier than wasps and hornets. They have hairy bodies, which are often covered in pollen. They come in hues of brown or black with yellow or orange bands. However, some bee species can be metallic green or blue. Bees have barbed stingers that lodge in their victims, which causes imminent death after the event.

Wasps are trimmer and have an elongated body. They’re sleek with few hairs and often black and yellow, but some species can be entirely black, brown, or metallic hues. Hornets are a type of wasp, so they share many characteristics with other wasp species. They are much larger though, and they have a hardier build.

Bees are herbivorous, whereas wasps and hornets are carnivorous. Yellow jackets add another layer of confusion to the mix, as they’re neither bee, wasp, nor hornet. They’re in a distinctive category of their own. Each group plays a unique ecological role and has unique behaviors and characteristics.

Ironically, there are more than 20 species of hornets, but only a few types will bother you in the Garden State. The most common hornet you’ll encounter is the European and bald-faced hornet. Both are equally aggressive and should be avoided at all costs.

European Hornets

European hornets are impressive and often misunderstood. As the largest hornet species in North America, it’s this variety you’ll likely encounter in the Garden State. By examining their bodies, you’ll see various markings of reddish-brown to yellow.

The European hornet’s ability to build nests is impressive. They use the saliva from their mouth and wood fibers to make pulp. They arrange this pulp in horizontal layers and build it until it forms a unique shape.

The nest will only have a single entrance hole, but the structure can be the size of a basketball or larger. The reason for the massive size is that it will accommodate hundreds of hornets, so they need the space.

They choose to use sheltered locations to build their nests. You’ll commonly see them in hollow trees, attics, the eaves of a home or building, underground, or even in the void of walls. Their nests can cause structural damage, as they’re substantial in size.

Thankfully, their prime location to build is a wooded area with lush foliage for camouflage. If they create a nest underground, they choose a sandy soil spot. Those living near the state’s coastal part might see more nests in the ground than in trees.

The European hornet is carnivorous, so they play a vital role in helping to control pest populations. They eat various insects, including flies, caterpillars, and other hornets. They sting their prey to immobilize them, and then they carry the dead insect back to the nest so they can feed the larvae. The large colonies are due to the social nature of this insect. Inside, you’ll find the queen, workers, and drones.

If there’s any good news about having European hornets around your home, it’s that they’re less aggressive than other species. While they will still defend their nests and can deliver a painful sting, it’s likely to be a distant memory within minutes. They won’t charge you like some hornets, but they will sting if you threaten their home. Some folks are allergic to their venom, which can cause an allergic reaction.

Bald-Faced Hornets

The bald-faced hornet, also called them ‘aerial yellowjacket,’ is a relative of the yellow jacket. Though their name depicts them as a hornet, they’re in a distinct category.

This insect is black and white, whereas the typical yellow jacket is black and yellow. The color patterns are why they’re named bald-face, as they have unique markings on their head. Their size is quite substantial, which makes them more menacing to encounter.

Another distinctive feature is they have white stripes at the end of their body that are easy to detect. You can expect this hornet to grow to three-fourths of an inch in length. The queen and workers are similar in size, but the queen will have a slight advantage over others in the nest.

Like traditional yellow jackets, they live in colonies with a well-defined social hierarchy. They construct nests, usually underground or in sheltered locations. These nests are made from paper-like material created by chewing wood and mixing it with saliva. The nests are often gray or brown and can be large, with multiple combs for raising their young.

They’re known for their aggressive nature when they perceive a threat to their nest. They can be provoked easily and may sting repeatedly to defend their colony. The bald-faced hornets are primarily scavengers. They feed on insects, meat, and sugary substances, such as nectar and fruit. They also invade picnics and outdoor events to scavenge for human food.

Controlling Hornets Around You Home

Controlling hornets around your home is essential for safety, especially if you or your family are allergic to their stings. Hornets can be aggressive when their nests are threatened, so taking precautions is crucial for your safety.

First, inspect your property regularly for potential nesting sites and seal any openings or cracks in your home’s exterior. Keep outdoor trash cans tightly sealed and free of sugary substances that attract them. Consider planting herbs or flowers that are natural deterrents. Some plants, like mint, wormwood, and marigolds, can help repel hornets due to their pungent smells.

When working outside during prime seasons, avoid wearing brightly colored clothing and using scented perfumes or lotions, as these can attract hornets and other insects. Since these hornets live in nature, there’s little you can do to totally prevent them should they see your property as a great place to call home.

Removal and Calling for Professional Help

Numerous trends are going around social media that encourage people to remove these nests with gasoline or other dangerous methods. Before attempting any hornet control, ensure you have the appropriate safety gear. This should include protective clothing such as a beekeeper’s suit or thick, long-sleeved clothing, gloves, and a veil or face protection.

Commercial hornet and wasp sprays are the most effective methods to use for colony eradication. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully to ensure your safety and that you take care of the problem. Stand back from the nest, usually about 15-20 feet, and spray the entrance thoroughly. Ensure you have a quick escape route in case hornets become agitated.

An alternative to liquid sprays is dust or powder insecticides. These can be applied to the entrance or directly into the nest if accessible. If the nest is small and within reach, you can remove it manually using a bag or container. Do this carefully and at night when hornets are less active. After removal, seal the nest inside a plastic bag and dispose of it properly.

Hornets can be dangerous, and attempting to remove a nest alone is risky. If you are uncertain or have allergies, it’s safer to consult our professional pest control service to handle the situation. Always prioritize safety when dealing with stinging insects. We have the expertise and equipment to remove hornet nests and protect you and your family.

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