How to Get Rid of Hornets

Did you know that there are over 100,000 species of wasp in the world?

While these creatures may promote local biodiversity and dampen the spread of invasive species, it can be quite frightening to see these creatures flying around your home. Once they’ve nested on or near your home, it’s time to get rid of them, regardless of their potential environmental benefits.

Knowing exactly how to get rid of hornets will limit the potential for stings during the removal process. Keep reading for our best tried and true hornet removal tips.

Make a Homemade Trap

If the hornet nest is still small, or if you see hornets flying around but can’t locate the nest, you can use a homemade trap to catch the hornets while they’re out and about.

Empty a 2-liter soda bottle and cut off the top of the bottle, anywhere between the line of the label and the midway point on the bottle. Fill the bottom of the bottle with something sweet, like soda, juice, or sugar water. Place the top of the bottle back on but invert it so that it creates a funnel.

Secure the inverted top of the bottle to the bottom with tape or glue. Then, place the trap near where you’ve seen the hornets. The sweet smell from inside the trap will attract the hornets, and they won’t be able to get out.

Once the trap is full, discard it in the trash.

Use a Commercial Insecticide

For more established nests or a greater volume of hornets, go for a commercially-produced insecticide instead of a DIY trap. If the nest is tucked in an out-of-the-way location, make sure you find a spray that has long-reaching capabilities.

When dealing with the trap, cover up any of your exposed skin with long sleeves, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. If possible, wait until evening or nightfall to use the insecticide. Spray from as far away as possible while still being effective, and then get out of the way.

Let the nest sit overnight and see if there are any hornets left. Repeat this process as many times as necessary until no hornets remain, and then carefully remove the nest.

Never spray a hornet nest while standing on a ladder. You’re unable to get away quickly enough to be safe, and if the hornets swarm at you, you may fall off the ladder and injure yourself.

Call a Professional

If you’re still unsure of your ability to deal with the wasps yourself, it’s okay to call in professionals to get rid of the hornets for you. Experts such as Holmes Lawn & Pest frequently deal with these kinds of issues. Plus, they’re guaranteed to have the proper tools and protective equipment to get the job done safely and well.