How to Get Rid of a Hornets Nest in a Tree

Hornets can be aggressive insects that build large nests, often high up in trees If you have a hornets nest in one of your trees, you’ll want to get rid of it as soon as possible Trying to remove a hornets nest yourself can be dangerous, so it’s best to hire a professional. Here’s what you need to know about getting rid of a hornets nest in a tree.

Identifying a Hornets Nest

The first step is identifying that you actually have a hornets nest Hornets build nests that hang from branches, They are usually shaped like a teardrop or rounded paper sack Nests can range from the size of a grapefruit to as big as a trash bag,

You’ll see hornets flying in and out of a small hole in the bottom of the nest. Hornets are larger than regular wasps with some yellow and brown markings. If you aren’t sure if it’s hornets or wasps, stay back and observe from a distance. Getting too close risks being stung.

Hornets are very protective of their nest. If you disturb it, they will viciously defend it by swarming and stinging. So do not throw things at the nest or try to knock it down yourself.

Dangers of DIY Removal

It’s never a good idea to try removing a hornets nest on your own Hornets will aggressively defend the nest if disturbed Even beekeeper suits can’t fully protect you from multiple stings.

Unless you are a trained professional, you likely do not have the proper equipment to safely remove a nest high up in a tree. Trying to knock down a nest with a stick or spray it with a hose will only anger the hornets and put you at risk of being attacked.

Even if you manage to remove the nest, surviving hornets may rebuild it in the same or a nearby location. For your own safety, it’s critical to call a pest control company to handle hornets nest removal.

Calling a Professional Exterminator

Here are the steps a professional exterminator will take to get rid of a hornets nest:

• Inspect the property to locate all nests.

• Apply an insecticide dust in the nest opening before dawn when hornets are dormant. This kills hornets inside the nest.

• Wear thick protective clothing from head to toe. Beekeeper suits provide the highest level of protection.

• Use a high-powered stream of water to dislodge the nest and knock it to the ground. This is done in the evening when most hornets have returned to the nest.

• Immediately place the dislodged nest in a sealed trash bag so hornets trapped inside cannot escape.

• Treat the inside of the tree cavity with a residual insecticide to prevent nest rebuilding.

• Monitor the site for any new nests.

This approach by professionals minimizes the risks of being stung. Insecticide dust and spray allows the nest to be removed safely. Sealing the nest prevents loose hornets from attacking. And residual sprays deter the area from being reused.

When to Call for Removal

Don’t wait if you spot a hornets nest in a tree on your property. Call for professional removal as soon as possible:

• In spring when new nests first appear. This prevents the colony from reaching maximum size in summer.

• If the nest is located near an area the public may disturb like a park trail.

• If the nest is lower in the tree where children could throw things at it.

• If you need to prune or remove the tree the nest is in.

• If hornets are starting to fly around or land on your home.

• If any family member is allergic to stings.

Taking quick action improves safety on your property and lets you avoid a serious problem in the future.

Removal Costs

Professional hornet nest removal typically costs $100 to $200 on average. Here are some of the factors that influence the price:

• Difficulty reaching the nest – More equipment and labor will be required for nests high up in tall trees.

• Number of nests – Prices are often based per nest removed. More nests means higher total costs.

• Type of insecticide used – Natural insecticides are more expensive than synthetic chemicals.

• Whether removal is for an entire property or a single nest – Treatment of a full property costs more.

• Time involved – Larger nests take longer to be removed safely.

While costs can add up for difficult removals, it’s worth investing to eliminate the hazard hornets pose. Getting multiple estimates lets you find the best rate.

Preventing Future Nests

To help prevent hornets from nesting again after removal, there are some steps you can take:

• Install yellow jacket traps around the property in spring to catch emerging queens before they can form nests.

• Seal openings in trees, sheds, and homes where hornets like to build nests.

• Keep trees and shrubs pruned so branches don’t touch buildings.

• Remove dead trees and rotting stumps that attract hornet nests.

• Avoid using sweet-smelling fragrances, foods, and drinks outdoors.

• Have a pest management professional apply preventative residual insecticide treatments.

With vigilance, you can help reduce the chances of dealing with hornets nests in your trees year after year. But if nests do reappear, never try removal yourself. Hire a licensed professional to do the job safely and effectively.

Summary

Here are some key points to remember about removing hornets nests in trees:

• Hornets aggressively defend nests and can sting repeatedly.

• Attempting removal without proper training and equipment is extremely dangerous.

• Call a professional pest control company as soon as a nest is observed.

• Treatment involves insecticide dust/spray and protective suits for safety.

• Sealing nests prevents loose hornets from escaping when dislodged.

• Monitor for any new nests and take steps to deter future nest building.

• While costly, professional removal is worth it to protect your family from swarms of stinging hornets.

Dealing with hornets nests yourself risks serious and even fatal stings. Protect your safety by hiring a pest management professional to inspect your property and remove any nests found in your trees.