Stinging insects send more than 500,000 people to the emergency room each year. For those with
severe allergies to these pests, a sting can be fatal. And even if your life isn’t in danger, no one wants the
pain that comes with a hornet sting.
The most active time of year for stinging pests is during the second half of summer and early
fall. This is when they forage for food to sustain their colonies over the course of winter. During
this time, most hornets become more aggressive as the urgency to acquire sustenance increases -
making stings much more common if you are unfortunate enough to stumble into their territory.
In many cases, hornet encounters simply cannot be avoided in the outdoors. The good news is
that you have options when it comes to protecting your Buckeye property from unwanted
hornets.
Hornet Identification
There has been a lot of buzz about the newfound invasive hornet species Asian giant hornets.
With a nickname like “murder hornet,” the concerns that have risen are perfectly understandable.
You might be surprised to hear that contrary to the widespread panic, this species is not a
significant threat to most of the United States. Sightings of the Asian giant hornet have been
limited to the Pacific Northwest, more specifically, the state of Washington.
Familiarity with hornet identification and hornet behavior is highly recommended in order to
prevent getting stung. Regardless of your geographical location, all hornet species pose a
significant threat to your health.
Bald-faced hornets
Bald-faced hornets are related to yellow jackets. They are considered hornets due to their large
size and aerial nests. Bald-faced hornets have antennae, large black bodies with a long wasp-like
shape, and their faces are mostly white. They have two slanted lines running from their
midsection towards their head and on the latter part of their abdomen. Their upper-mid-section is
triangular in appearance. Bald-faced hornets range from 1/2 – 5/8 inches in size, while the queen
averages around ¾ inches in size. They are visibly active during the day, and usually appear in
late summer.
Unlike other stinging insects, they will build new nests each season. Bald-faced hornets nests can
be found three or more feet off of the ground, usually in trees, shrubs, overhangs, houses, and
sheds. They build grey nests that can be up to 14 inches in diameter and more than 24 inches in
length. These nests are enclosed and not a cone nest structure.
European hornets
European hornets are also called giant hornets or brown hornets. Their common name refers to
their introduction from Europe to the New York area in the 1800’s. This species is brown with
yellow abdominal stripes and a pale face. Their bodies are long, robust, and wasp-like, ranging
from ¾ - 1½ inches in size. They have antennae, two pairs of wings, and six legs. Unlike most
stinging insects, European hornets can be active at night.
European hornet nests can be found in common areas such as hollow trees, attics, porches, and
inside wall voids. Their nests are not covered by an external structure. Instead, they have a
brown papery envelope covering their cells. Sheltered nests will have little to no envelope
covering.
Asian giant hornets
Asian giant hornets are typically found in China, Japan, and several other Asian countries. Their
first sighting in the United States occurred in Washington in late 2019. They have a light orange
head with orange and black or brown stripes extending down their long, robust bodies. Asian
giant hornets have prominent eyes, antennae, and distinct mandibles. Their wingspan is roughly
3 inches, and their stinger measures about ¼ inches long. Asian giant hornets are the largest
hornet species in the world, averaging between 1½ - 2 inches. The queen can exceed 2 inches in
length.
Asian giant hornets primarily feed on other insects, and they have been known to attack bee nests
and destroy their colonies. This behavior has earned them their popular nickname, the murder
hornet. They have been known to repeatedly sting their targets, especially when their colony is
threatened. Reports suggest that they kill as many as 50 people a year in Japan.
Asian giant hornets avoid high altitudes, with a preference for low forests and mountains.
They typically live underground in subterranean nests, making it difficult to locate their colonies
for extermination. Asian giant hornets dig into the ground to create their nests. In some cases,
they will occupy space near rotting tree roots or pre-existing tunnels that have been dug by other
animals such as rodents.
Hornets Are One Of The Most Dangerous Stinging Insects
When it comes to dangerous hornets, in a way, the good news is that native stinging insects pose
a greater threat to Americans than the much-feared invasive murder hornet. Of course, the bad
news is that native bald faced hornets are still very much fatal and much more widespread than
their Asian counterparts.
The bald-faced hornet can be territorial and aggressive. They have been known to attack in large
numbers with repeated stinging to stun their victims. Anyone or anything that accidentally
invades their territory is in danger. Their sting carries potent venom that induces pain, itching,
and swelling for roughly 24 hours.
However, you should know that hornets are not only a danger to people and pets but also to
structures. When their nests are built inside wall voids, they can cause costly damage to your
property. If you find or suspect a stinging nest on your property, promptly contact a pest
professional for hornet control. Attempting to remove stinging insect nests on your own can be
severely life threatening.
Helpful Hornet Prevention
Making your yard less appealing to stinging pests is a smart step towards hornet prevention in
Buckeye. Always keep a large space of distance from any stinging insects and their nesting
areas. Here are some helpful tips to try:
- Frequently check the exterior structures and potential nesting sites on your property. Do
this with extreme caution. Hornets will not hesitate to attack when they feel their colony
is under threat.
- Seal up any openings and crevices that could potentially provide shelter, no matter how
tiny and insignificant they may seem. Repair and install windows screens and door
screens.
- Keep food and beverages well covered, especially when outdoors, as stinging insects are
attracted to aromas. Avoid strong fragrances and perfumes when choosing your hygienic
products. Opt for unscented detergents and soaps whenever possible.
- Wear shoes that will cover and protect your feet. Hornets have been known to attack from
the ground.
Hire a pest professional to administer ongoing hornet prevention and control treatments.
It’s Better To Be Safe Than Sorry
When it comes to West Buckeye hornet control, it is always the best practice to let a professional
handle the life-threatening dangers they can inflict on anything or anyone they please.
Triton Pest Control is a locally founded and owned group of professionals with 35 years
of combined experience in the pest control industry. Each of our technicians has joint ownership
of our company. We take the time necessary to ensure accountable and high quality service
month after month.
Triton Pest Control provides our customers with integrated access to their account information, billing, and knowledge of our products. Triton Pest Control offers free inspection quotes, fair estimates, emergency pest services, and a satisfaction guarantee. We are known as one the tope pest control providers in Buckeye with a reputation of top customer service, and 100% effective Pest Control treatments. All military members receive their first treatment spray at 50% off! Contact us today to find out more about hornet control for your property.