Georgia summers mean an increase in stinging insect activity, including Bald Faced and European hornets. Considered pests to most people due to their painful stings, these insects are essential to the environment and human agriculture because they are natural predators for many crop-destroying pests and they pollinate a variety of plants. Bald Face Hornets are more likely to build their nests in the open, while European Hornets build their nests on the side of trees, inside hollow trees/logs, and around rocks.

 

Asian Giant Hornets (Vespa mandarinia) aka “Murder Hornets”

Asian Giant Hornets have been nicknamed Murder Hornets, due to how viciously they prey upon honeybees. Carnivorous Asian Giant Hornets can kill an entire honeybee colony by decapitation in 90 minutes, and then feed the insects and larvae to their own young. As the largest known hornet, Asian Giant Hornets average around 1.5 to 2 inches in length (average bees are usually around half an inch long,) have large, yellow-orange heads, a much longer stinger than honeybees and wasps, more toxic venom, and prefer to nest in the ground. These hornets have only been confirmed in Western Washington State and British Columbia, meaning they pose an extremely low to nonexistent risk to Georgians. Unfortunately, indiscriminate spraying for protection against Asian Giant Hornets could kill beneficial pollinators such as bumblebees and other, more benign species of hornets.

 

How to Prevent a Hornet Infestation

If you notice a rise in the number of hornets buzzing around your property, they could simply be foraging for food nearby or you may have an infestation. To prevent hornets from building nests on or near your property:

– Keep food containers tightly wrapped while outdoors

– Immediately wipe up spilled food and drinks

– Frequently empty out your garbage cans

– Plant flowers away from the house

 

Call Wild Trappers for Your Hornet Removal Needs

Don’t try to disrupt any hornet nests or attempt to eliminate these pests on your own! They may be small but they can quickly become a big problem. The professional team at Wild Trappers can help you enjoy your summer by eliminating any European and Bald-faced Hornets or other pests on your property. Our pest management professionals will apply knowledge and expertise to your situation to create an effective and customized pest elimination and management program specifically suited to your needs. Plus, if you are not completely satisfied with our service, you will receive a full refund on your last service visit. Protect yourself, your family, and your property by calling the trained professionals at Wild Trappers. Contact us through our online form or call us at 770-828-9622 today!