Hornet Control in Austin

FUN FACT

Did you know that hornets can build nests up to a foot in diameter? These large nests are typically found in sheltered areas and can house hundreds of hornets. Early intervention is key to managing these nests before they become a bigger problem around your home.

Schedule Your Hornet Removal Call (512) 764-5804

Identification Hornets, a type of wasp, are recognized for their bold black and yellow stripes. More than 20 species inhabit North America, with the bald-faced hornet being the most common. These social insects thrive in various habitats, from forests and meadows to urban areas. Hornets are primarily predators, feeding on insects, caterpillars, and spiders, but they also have a penchant for sugary liquids like soda and fruit.

Habitat and Behavior Hornets are most active during the day, though they can also be active at dusk and dawn. They build paper nests in sheltered areas like eaves, trees, or under decks. Unlike bees, hornets can sting repeatedly and are known for their territorial nature. They defend their nests aggressively and can chase perceived threats.

Prickly Pear’s Approach

Exclusion: We inspect your property for potential nesting sites and entry points, sealing gaps and holes around eaves, soffits, windows, and doors with caulk or weather stripping.
Habitat Modification: We recommend keeping lids on trash cans, cleaning up spills promptly, and avoiding leaving sugary drinks outdoors to reduce attractants.
Nest Removal: For developed nests, our team uses targeted chemical applications to address the hornets and limit the impact on other insects, wildlife, and humans. Once the population is reduced, we remove the nest and clean the area.

Conclusion Hornets play a valuable role in the ecosystem by controlling pest populations, aiding in pollination, and serving as a food source for other animals. However, their presence near homes can be a risk due to their aggressive nature. Prickly Pear Wildlife offers professional services to manage hornet populations and secure your property. If you notice signs of hornet activity, contact us for expert assistance in maintaining a hornet-free environment.

Hornet and Large Wasp Nests Around Austin

True hornets are rare in Central Texas. Most “hornet” calls here are bald-faced hornets (which are actually a kind of yellowjacket), European hornets, or large yellowjacket colonies. All of them build enclosed paper nests and defend them aggressively, so the approach is the same.

Where we find these nests

Inside walls, soffits and attics, entering through a small gap
In shrubs, hedges and low tree branches, often found when someone trims the bushes
Underground in old rodent burrows, in the case of yellowjackets
Inside sheds, playhouses and unused grills

How we remove them

Identify the species and find the entrance. Enclosed nests often have a single opening.
Treat the nest at the right time, usually early morning or evening when the workers are inside.
Remove the nest once activity stops, and for nests inside walls, seal the entrance afterward.

Hornet questions we hear

Can I seal the hole to trap them inside the wall?

Please don’t. Trapped wasps chew through to find another way out, often into the living space. Treat first, then seal.

What if someone is allergic?

Keep them away from the area and call us for a prompt visit. Anyone with a known allergy who gets stung should follow their doctor’s plan.

Why late summer is the worst time

These colonies grow all season and reach their largest size in late summer and early fall. A nest that held a few dozen wasps in May can hold hundreds or even thousands by August, and the workers get more defensive as food gets scarce. If you spot a nest early in the season, have it treated then.

Do you remove nests in tall trees?

Yes. Our base pest plan includes nest removal up to 16 feet, and we bring extension equipment so no one has to climb a ladder near an active nest. For nests higher than that, call us and we’ll take a look.

How do I know if a nest is still active?

Watch the entrance for a few minutes in the middle of a warm day. Steady traffic in and out means the colony is active. Old gray nests with no traffic are usually abandoned and can be removed once we confirm they’re empty.

All pest service is backed by our 30-day guarantee. We provide hornet and wasp nest removal across Austin, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Hutto, Georgetown, Leander and Cedar Park.

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