Wasp & Hornet Extermination
How Do You Know You Have a Hornet or Wasp Infestation?
Seeing a couple of wasps or hornets in your home or yard isn't usually cause for alarm. However, you may have an infestation on your hands if you see multiple insects. You'll usually hear a loud buzzing noise around the nest site. You may also notice a tapping sound if the nest is inside a wall cavity or attic.
Another sign of a wasp or hornet infestation is the presence of visible nests. Wasps and hornets make their nests from chewed wood and saliva, giving them a gray, paper-like appearance. You might notice tiny holes in woodwork, but other common pests can also cause wood damage.
Nests can be tricky to spot because they're often in tucked-away areas. Common sites include eaves, bushes, attics and trees. Be cautious when looking for the nests, as accidentally disturbing them could cause the wasps or hornets to chase and sting you.
Do Wasps and Hornets Sting?
Wasps and hornets will sting when they feel threatened, and this usually happens when someone disturbs a nest. Unlike bees, wasps and hornets don't die after stinging, meaning the same one can sting multiple times.
However, hornets tend to be significantly more aggressive than regular wasps. Their stings also hurt more because they contain more venom.
Hornet and wasp stings can cause symptoms around the sting site, including:
- Pain
- Skin irritation and redness
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Itching
Occasionally, wasp and hornet stings can cause more severe reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop more widespread symptoms such as breathing difficulties, vomiting or coughing.
Can You Get Rid of Hornets and Wasps Yourself?
You can try getting rid of hornets and wasps yourself, but it's a risky business. It's essential to plan your escape from the nest site and wear protective clothing to guard against stings. Wasps and hornets can sting through single fabric layers, so aim to wear as many tightly-woven layers as possible.
Wasps and hornets tend to be less active at night, so a nighttime ambush can be safer. Locating and dealing with nests in early spring is often safer than waiting until the infestation becomes more established in the summer.
Some people prefer to call a wasp or hornet extermination company to avoid the risk of stings.
How Do You Prevent Wasps and Hornets From Infesting Your Home?
You can stop wasps and hornets from getting inside your home by sealing any cracks in the exterior. It's also important to keep any sweet foods in airtight containers, as they can attract wasps. While it may seem intuitive to swat them, killing wasps and hornets releases pheromones that could attract more.
