Wasps & Hornets

Wasps and hornets are stinging insects that can pose serious safety risks when they build nests on or near homes. Unlike honey bees, which can sting only once, wasps and hornets can sting repeatedly and will aggressively defend their nests when they feel threatened. According to the CDC, stinging insects cause an average of 62 deaths per year in the United States, primarily due to anaphylactic reactions in allergic individuals.

The most common species encountered around homes include paper wasps, yellow jackets, and bald-faced hornets. Paper wasps build distinctive open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, porch ceilings, and deck railings. They are generally less aggressive than other species and will usually only sting if their nest is directly disturbed. Yellow jackets are the most aggressive common species — they nest in the ground, in wall voids, and in other enclosed spaces. They are strongly attracted to food and sugary drinks, making them a persistent problem at outdoor gatherings. Bald-faced hornets build large, enclosed paper nests in trees and shrubs. Their nests can house 400-700 workers by late summer.

Wasp and hornet nests follow a predictable seasonal cycle. Queens emerge from winter hibernation in early spring and build small starter nests alone. These early-season nests (golf ball size or smaller) are the easiest and safest to remove. Throughout the summer, the colony grows rapidly. By August and September, nests reach their maximum size and the colony is at peak aggression — this is when most stings occur. In fall, the colony dies off except for newly mated queens, which find sheltered spots to overwinter.

Approximately 2 million Americans are allergic to stinging insect venom. For these individuals, a single sting can trigger anaphylaxis — a life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate epinephrine injection and emergency medical care. Anyone who has experienced swelling beyond the sting site, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or hives after a sting should carry an EpiPen and consult an allergist.

For small, accessible nests found early in the season, commercial wasp sprays that shoot 15-20 feet can be effective when applied at dusk (when most wasps are inside and less active). For larger nests, nests in wall voids, or nests in high locations, always hire a licensed pest control professional. Never attempt to burn, flood, or seal a wasp nest — these methods are dangerous and often ineffective.