Hornets are dangerous flying insects that can cause series harm to property and people. They are know to attack in large numbers and can deliver painful stings. Unlike bees, they can sting a victim multiple times. Their venom is not more dangerous than that of wasps, except it contains histamines, a primary cause of allergic reactions that can lead to anaphylactic shock in come people.

There are about 20 known species of true hornets, most of them native to Eurasia. Biologically, all are members of the wasp family. Ranging from 1 to 1.5 inches in length, they are the largest wasps on earth. Because of their size, hornets are often considered more aggressive than their smaller cousins, but that’s a misconception. (If you’ve ever dealt with a yellow jacket you know how combative they can be!)

Hornets are social insects, meaning they live in colonies consisting of a single nest that’s home to many individuals. Their nests are large, roundish structures that house from 100 to 700 workers. Each hornet has a role to fill within a caste system.

Visually, hornets can be black & white (Bald-Faced Hornets) or brownish-red (most species). They prey on other insects and rarely scavenge for sweets or proteins. They will attack, often in large numbers, when disturbed.

Species that we usually recognize as wasps are generally smaller, growing to 1 inch or less. Depending on the species, they can be very social, living in groups of 100 to 5000 workers, or solitary. They may nest above or below ground, and their propensity toward aggression varies wildly. For instance, yellow jackets, can attack without provocation, while mud daubers rarely challenge anyone.

These wasps come in a wide variety of colors, depending on species. Some are reddish-brown, others feature a lot of yellow, and some are solid black. Their food preferences differ from hornets, as they often prey on other insects and also make sweets and proteins play a major part of their diet.

Here’s a short summary of six species found in the U.S.:

European Hornets –

This is the only true hornet species currently residing in the United States…and it’s not even native to North America! European hornets were accidentally introduced to the East Coast about 1840. These insects have reddish-brown heads and abdomens with yellow bands along their tail. Since introduction they’ve spread as far eastern Dakotas and down to New Orleans, and are common along the Atlantic seaboard.

They typically build nests inside natural cavities such as hollow trees or inside walls. Occasionally they’ll build exposed aerial nests in protected places such as in barns or under overhangs. You might see one in our service territory, but typically they habit areas farther east.

Bald-Faced Hornets –

These insects are not true hornets; they’re actually a type of yellow jacket. They’re characterized by white markings on their face with a predominantly black body. Found throughout the U.S., of all the “hornets” in the United States, this is the one you’re most likely to encounter in our service territory.

Colonies consist of 100 to 400 insects living in a nest up to two feet in diameter. Like many other wasps, nests are constructed from of a type of paper made from digested wood and plant material. You’ll typically find nests at least three feet above the ground in bushes and shrubbery, but they can be in trees as high as 60 feet. They’ll sometimes build nests under eaves and in other protected locations.

Asian Giant Hornets –

In 2019 a particularly troublesome type of invasive insect was found in British Columbia and Washington state. Commonly called “murder hornets”, they’re native to Japan, Korea, and other parts of Asia. Size wise the largest hornets in the world, these insects pose a serious threat to North American bees and plants. Researchers are paying close attention to these two colonies, which fortunately don’t appear to have spread far from their initial landing area.  

Paper Wasps –

Known for their intricate yet durable paper nests, these insects are found throughout temperate North America. They feature a slender, reddish-brown body with yellow bands. (Appearance can vary by habitat.) Nests are often found near wooded environments where raw materials can be easily obtained. In populated areas they’ll attach their nests to homes, barns, sheds, fences, etc. Chances are good you’ve seen one on the underside of an eave sometime in your life.

As social insects, they rely on the entire colony for food, shelter, and protection. An interesting fact is this species has the ability to recognize faces of other wasps within its colony, and can identify wasps that do not belong. This is a very handy ability that enables them to keep intruders away. They will definitely sting to protect the nest when outsiders…including humans…get too close!

Southern Yellow Jackets –

Common to our service area, you’ve no doubt seen these troublemakers buzzing around outdoors. They’re native to the south-central and southeastern U.S., and can be found all the way down to Central America. Like paper wasps, southern yellow jackets chew wood fiber to create a type of paper to build nests underground, in tree holes, or inside walls. Workers are about a half-inch long with yellow and black stripes.

As social insects, they live in large colonies, and will readily sting in order to protect their nest. Yellow jackets are naturally aggressive and have a tendency to sting multiple times at the least provocation. Watch where you’re walking and tread lightly, as many attacks result when people unknowingly step on a nest.  Despite their “bad boy” reputation, these insects do have redeeming qualities, as they’re beneficial pollinators and feed on several types of insect pests.

Mud Daubers –

Unlike other wasps on our list, mud daubers live solitary lives. Only one wasp resides in each nest, and they are solely responsible for feeding and protecting themselves. They can be seen throughout the United States, and are not naturally aggressive. That doesn’t mean they won’t sting at all, but usually attack only in extreme circumstances.

Their name is very descriptive, as they build their nests from mud. Their homes feature a tube-like structure leading to the interior. You can often find them on the sides of buildings or bridges.

Usually black, with a “thread-waisted” body, mud daubers sometimes sport a blue metallic luster; they can also feature other light markings. In addition to being one of the most benign wasps, they are particularly beneficial when it comes to controlling spiders, providing natural pest control.

Basics to Remember When Dealing with Hornets and Wasps

1: Removing Hornets

As we’ve seen, hornets are a threat to both people and property. A couple of options are available to control them. Trapping is one popular way; pesticide application is another. Both have advantages and drawbacks.

Deploying traps can be effective, but results are not guaranteed. If you’re thinking about deploying hornet traps, make doubly sure you know what you’re doing and exercise great caution. You run a real risk of being stung multiple times. Even if you’re successful in capturing a colony, you’re still faced with deposing them.

Pesticides made specifically for hornet control are available. If you choose this option, be sure to procure the right product and learn how to use it, as improper application can be dangerous. As with traps, prepare yourself in advance and know that suffering a sting or two is a real possibility.

2: Eliminating Wasp Nests

Wasps are near the top of most people’s list of most hated insects, but as we’ve seen, they provide valuable services. The trick is to keep them away from people while encouraging their environmentally beneficial activities.  If possible, remove nests when they’re small. Make sure no workers are around, or you may have to deal with an attack! You can certainly take down larger nests, but the likelihood of stirring up trouble increases with the size of nest.

Spray pesticides can be effective in clearing established populations nesting on or around buildings. Just be sure to buy the appropriate product and apply according to instructions. Before application please take personal precautions, as you may provoke workers to attack. If you’re observant you may find a time when no workers are present, making application much safer.

3: Enlist the Help of Professionals
 
Experienced pest control professionals are well-acquainted with methods for removing hornets and wasps of many kinds. KC Pest Control is well-acquainted with these processes. If pesticides are needed, we have access to environmentally safe products that are targeted to your specific problem. Not only can we treat existing problems, but we’re able to provide proactive solutions that can prevent them from returning in the future.

Although crucial to the pollinating process, hornets and wasps can be a real nuisance and a hazard. Problems can quickly develop If they decide to nest where your children play or employees eat lunch. Monitor the situation at the first sign of their appearance, and prepare to take quick action to mitigate the danger. We’re ready to help remove threats these insects pose, and secure the area in the future. Call or text (405) 679-8729 for consultation today!