These bold, black and yellow insects strike fear in people all across the US. But before you grab the nearest fly swatter, let’s talk about the role that hornets play in our world. 

Personally, I have dealt with bald faced hornets when I worked trimming Christmas trees one summer. These hornets were both fasinating and hands down the scariest insect I have ever dealt with. Don’t believe me? Check out what Penn State has to say about them in their blog.

Hornet Headquarters: Where They Be Buzzing

Hornets are actually a type of wasp and are closely related to yellow jackets and bees. More than 20 different species of hornets live in North America, with the bald-faced hornet being the most common (and in our opinion the most terrifying). Considered social insects, hornets are known to thrive in a variety of habitats, ranging from  forests and meadows to backyards and urban areas. While most commonly found in the eastern half of the United States, hornets are known to make their homes throughout the US. 

Hornets are most active during the day though unlike their bee cousins, hornets can also be active at dusk and dawn, making them more likely to encounter humans enjoying their evenings outdoors. Primarily known to be predators, hornets’ typical diet consists of other insects, including caterpillars, flies, and even other wasps and bees, but like us, they are known for their sweet tooth drawn to feed on sugary liquids including soda or fruit, often present at our picnics and BBQs. 

Ok, but why are we all so scared of hornets? Well, besides their menacing face… unlike honeybees, which die after stinging, hornets can sting repeatedly, packing a powerful punch. Additionally, hornets are known to be territorial and work together as a swarm to not only defend their nests, but also give chase to whatever they consider to be a threat. 

Signs of a Hornet Hangout

If you suspect hornets have set up shop on your property, here are a few signs to watch out for:

• Hornet Hideouts: Hornets build paper nests, often in sheltered areas like eaves, trees, or even under decks. These nests are typically grey or brown and can be quite large, reaching up to a foot in diameter. However, they start off small and that is the best time to address them. 
• The Buzz: Hornets are not shy about defending their territory. If you see hornets flying persistently around a particular area, it might be near their nest.
• The Food Frenzy: Hornets are attracted to ripe fruit and sugary drinks. If you find them swarming around your outdoor garbage can or picnic basket, it’s a good indication they live nearby. Feeding on other insects, hornets often leave a pile of insect body parts under their nests. 

While they prefer nesting in high spaces, it should be known that many species prefer to build a nest in the ground, behind siding, in a hedge, or even under your furniture. Versatile home builders, they will try to nest anywhere that they think will be safe from rain and predators. 

Hornet Breeding Habits

The hornet breeding season typically occurs in the spring and early summer as queens emerge from hibernation and begin building nests. They lay eggs, and worker hornets, all sterile females, take care of the young by foraging for food and tending to the nest. A single nest will produce hundreds of new hornets throughout the season. 

Hornets Role in the Ecosystem

While hornets can be intimidating, they do play a valuable role in your ecosystem by: 

• Patrolling for Pests: Hornets are natural predators of many insects, including some that can be harmful to gardens and crops. Their presence helps to control pest populations and balance your ecosystem.
• Pollinating Plant: Although not as efficient pollinators as bees, hornets do visit flowers in search of nectar. In doing so, they can inadvertently transfer pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction.
• Fueling the Food Chain: Hornets themselves are a food source for other animals, such as birds and spiders contributing to the intricate food chain. 

Hornet Hardening: Making Your Property Less Appealing

Hornets are beneficial insects, but they come with a risk. It’s understandable if you don’t want them setting up camp near your home given their territorial nature. Here are a few tips to deter them from moving into your space:

• No Free Lunch: Eliminate potential food sources around your property. Keep lids on trash cans, clean up spills promptly, and avoid leaving sugary drinks outdoors.
• Seal Up the Cracks: Hornets are adept at finding entry points into homes and outbuildings. Regularly inspect your eaves, soffits, and around windows and doors for any gaps or holes and seal them up with caulk or weather stripping.
• Nest Eviction: If you discover a hornet nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional pest control service for removal. Hornets can be aggressive when disturbed, and attempting to remove a nest yourself can be dangerous. However, if you’re going the DIY approach, be sure to follow the directions on the label and ensure you have a plan for if things get out of control. 

The Prickly Pear Approach

For our service plan customers, our technicians will check for nests at every appointment. We sweep the eaves, soffits, and pay special attention to known hornet hangouts to proactively remove nests as soon as they start. When we encounter a more developed next, our team will use targeted chemicals applied in a controlled method to address the hornets and limit impact to other insects, wildlife, and humans. Once the chemicals have reduced the population, our team swoops in to remove the nest and cleans the area to ensure it is like they were never there. 

Not yet a service plan customer? No problem, just give us a call and we will have a technician out as soon as possible to address these insects. 

Hornet Harmony: Respectful Coexistence

Hornets may not be the cuddliest creatures that Prickly Pear helps with, but they are a vital member of our ecosystem. By understanding their behavior and implementing preventative measures, we can learn to coexist peacefully with these bold stinging insects. Remember, a healthy respect for these insects goes a long way. We recommend that you appreciate them from afar, avoid attracting them to your living space, and if necessary, reach out to Prickly Pear for help with controlling hornets. With a little knowledge and a lot of caution, we can share our backyards with these impressive [and sometimes intimidating] hornets.