Natural Hornet Control in Virginia
Hornets are the biggest and strongest of all of the social wasps, capable of inflicting an extremely painful sting. Their relatively high nests give them a special vantage point, so it's not surprising if they attack a potential intruder from farther away if they feel threatened.
A single queen constructs an open comb until the worker hornets are able to take over the process. From there they build combs stacked above each other and enclose the nest with a multi-layered paper shell, leaving an opening at the bottom for entry.
Nests can contain around 700 workers by late summer depending on the species. Workers die off in the winter, but newly emerging queens seek shelter to survive the cold.
Dangers of Hornet Stings
Rashes
Hives
Dizziness
Headache
Body aches
Muscle cramps
Nausea
Vomiting
Swelling away from the sting
Shortness of breath
Drop in blood pressure
Difficulty swallowing
State of shock
Unconsciousness
Death
Tips to Reduce Hornets & Hornet Stings
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Keep lawn areas maintained and foliage thinned out to allow for more sunlight and increased airflow, while reducing nesting materials.
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Reduce or eliminate items that hold standing water outdoors such as containers, old tires, tarps and furniture covers, and any other item that holds water.
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Avoid wearing strong or sweet scented lotions, perfumes, hairsprays etc. when spending time outdoors.
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Be observant and take note of the presence of hornets. Early detection allows you to avoid the area if possible, or have the nest treated and/or removed before it becomes established.
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Wear long sleeve shirts and pants if weather permits.
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Wear khaki, tan, or dark colored clothing if in an area with hornets.
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Try to avoid quick movements if you are near an adult hornet or hornet nest.
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Hire Essential Pest for natural hornet control.
Did You Know?
Wasps are some of the most incredible flying insects. They can remember faces, which not only helps them recognize others from their nest, but also helps them to stay locked on to a perceived threat. Little claws on their feet give them a firm grip when they land on their target, allowing them to sting repeatedly.
Hornets can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, so you're not likely to outrun them. Your best option during an attack is to move away from the area calmly and quickly in a straight line, since most wasps will stop their pursuit once you're 100-150 feet from their nest. It's no wonder they instill fear in anyone who stumbles across a nest!