Hornets are a vital part of our ecosystem, but when their ecosystem becomes attached to our homes, the two worlds colliding isn't good. From the territory aggression and painful stings to exterior damage to your home, hornets in Salt Lake City can indeed be dangerous. If you're dealing with hornets on your property, contact your local Salt Lake City Pest Control for nest removal.
Hornets vs. Wasps: How To Spot The Difference
What's the difference between a wasp and a hornet? They have very similar characteristics, but there are some differences between wasps and hornets.
- Sting: Wasp stings can cause minor discomfort and aren't as painful as hornet stings. A hornet's sting contains a neurotoxin that, in rare cases, can be fatal.
- Body Type: Hornets and wasp bodies have three segments: head, thorax, and abdomen, but the real difference is in the abdomen area. Hornets have rounder, thicker midsections, and wasps have narrower waists.
- Color: Hornets typically have black and yellow striped bodies, reminiscent of bees. Wasps can be red, black, or blue.
- Size: Wasps can be as small as 1/4 inch and grow to 1 inch in length. On the other hand, a hornet can grow to a whopping 2 inches in length!
Hornet and wasp identification is important, but it's okay if you don't know the difference. If you're wondering whether you're dealing with hornets or wasps on your Salt Lake City property, reach out to the experts at Pest Pro Pest Control. Our team will identify the stinging insect and develop a customized plan for removal or relocation.
Ways To Deter Hornets In Salt Lake City
Without any hesitation, hornets will dart at you if you get too close to their nest, and you shouldn't have to run for cover when trying to go home. In combination with wasp removal services, implementing these deterrents will keep hornets away from your home.
- Seal all cracks on your home's exteriors.
- Replace torn window and door screens.
- Keep your trash cans securely closed.
- Plant hornet deterrent plants.
- Properly dispose of food scraps.
- Hang wasp traps.
With these deterrents in place, hornets will not want to build a nest and stay on your property.
What To Do If You Spot A Hornet Nest
Several people will give suggestions on what to do if you spot a hornet's nest on or near your house, but in most cases, their words of advice are completely wrong and will put you on the pathway to getting stung. Setting the nest on fire, spraying the nest during the day, or knocking it down with a stick (yes, people really do this) are all the things you don't want to do.
The thing to understand about hornets is that they have a smooth stinger that allows them to sting multiple times without dying. Getting stung by a hornet multiple times can cause mild to severe side effects and sometimes result in death. If you're elderly, a child, or have a compromised immune system, you may need to seek medical attention.
The bottom line is that if you spot a hornet nest on your property, you need to call professional pest control services immediately. Hornets are very territorial and aggressive in protecting their nests, so when a hornet's nest is on your property, you most importantly want to stay as far away from it as possible. These pests always seem to build their nests in highly trafficked areas of your home, like near your front door or your patio deck.
Does Professional Pest Control Help With Hornets?
Absolutely! Trying to remove a hornet's nest on your own is extremely dangerous. We have the right tools and equipment necessary for safe removal, and our professional technicians will not only remove the infestation but identify the reason they're hanging around your home. Let Pest Pro Pest Control be your trusted hornet removal solution for your Salt Lake City property.