Learn How To Spot In Ground Hornets’ Nests And Safely Remove Them
While many people think of hornets making nests in trees, there are actually a number of species of wasps and hornets that make their nests in the ground. The most common in ground nesting species include yellow jackets, bald-faced hornets, and paper wasps. These pests will make nests in loose soil and in any cavity they can find, which unfortunately also includes wall voids, garages, barns, sheds, and inside of attics.
How To Spot An In Ground Nest
The first step in controlling wasps and hornets of this type is to identify them and find their nest, and every homeowner should be able to spot hornets’ nests for their family’s safety. Here’s how:
- Nests frequently show up in quiet, out-of-the-way places.
- Hornets are more active during the day and can be seen flying to and from a nest.
- Ground nests will have a small opening in the earth similar to a rodent or rabbit hole.
- Above ground, search common areas around the home such as overhangs, eaves of buildings, beams and supports, between studding and joists, and in garages, barns, and sheds.
Staying Safe When It Comes To Hornets
These insects can be very dangerous; their stings send nearly half of a million people to the emergency room every year. If you can see a hornet’s nest, your best bet is to avoid it and make sure your family stays away as well. If the nest is near an area that the family uses a lot, such as a deck or patio, you should avoid using those areas during the day and make plans to have the nest removed. Most wasps are less active at night and when the temperature drops below 50 degrees.
Fighting Back Against Hornets
The safest way to remove a hornet’s nest is to call a professional. However, homeowners can also deal with nests if they are willing and are not allergic to their stings. If you are not sure if you’re allergic, or if you have a serious infestation, it is highly advisable to leave the removal to a professional pest control company for your own safety.
When To Control Hornet Nests – Both In And Above Ground
- Start in June when new nests are small and easier to handle.
- Work at night or whenever the temperature is lower; wasps will be less active then.
- If you expect a good frost in the near future, let the cold kill the nest instead.
- If the nests are far away from your home and human activity, consider leaving the nest alone and avoiding the risk.
Methods For In Ground Hornet Control
There are a number of both household items and commercial insecticides that are ideal for controlling in ground hornet nests.
- First, make up a soap and water solution using dish or laundry soap. Pour it into the entrance at night.
- If that doesn’t work, use a dust insecticide on the entrance. Make sure to read the label to ensure it is safe for use in lawns and soil.
- Cover the nest entrance with soil.
- Enlist the help of an experienced pest control company that will be able to safely and effectively apply insecticides and remove the nest.
As always, your safety and the safety of your family is paramount.