How to Get Rid of a Hornets Nest Like a Pro

Discovering a hornet’s nest on your property can be nerve-wracking. These aggressive insects don’t just sting once, they can sting multiple times and often attack in groups if they feel threatened. Whether the nest is tucked under the eaves of your home, hidden in a bush, or inside your attic, it’s not something you want to ignore. In this post, we’ll walk through how to get rid of a hornets nest like a pro, with expert tips, prevention advice, and insight on when to call in help.

Acting quickly and carefully is essential to protect your family, pets, and peace of mind.

What You’re Dealing With

Hornets are a type of wasp known for their size, speed, and strong stings. They typically build their nests out of a paper-like substance made by chewing wood fibers and mixing them with saliva. These nests often appear as large, rounded gray structures hanging from trees, under rooflines, or tucked into wall voids and attics.

Unlike bees, hornets don’t die after stinging. They can sting several times in a row, and if one hornet feels threatened, it can release pheromones to signal the rest of the colony to attack.

This aggressive behavior is one reason hornet infestations aren’t a DIY project for most homeowners. In fact, according to the CDC, stinging insects like hornets, bees, and wasps are responsible for an average of 62 deaths per year in the U.S., most of which are due to allergic reactions. That’s why understanding the risks before approaching a nest is key.

How to Spot a Hornet Problem Early

Being able to identify the early signs of a hornet infestation can save you time, money, and frustration. One of the most common indicators is an increase in hornet activity around your yard, especially near your home’s roof, shed, or trees.

You might also notice buzzing near vents, cracks, or outdoor furniture. If you spot a nest in its early stages, it may only be the size of a golf ball, which is the best time to take action before the colony grows.

Hornets are most active in the warmer months, typically from spring through early fall. During this time, they build and expand their nests quickly. By the end of summer, a single nest can house hundreds of hornets. Catching it early means you’ll likely face fewer stings and pay less for removal.

Why DIY Can Be Dangerous

Trying to handle hornet nest removal on your own might seem like a budget-friendly solution, but it comes with serious risks. Hornets react aggressively to any perceived threat, especially during the heat of the day when they’re most active.

Knocking down a nest, spraying it with store-bought products, or disturbing it in any way can trigger an attack. Unlike bees, hornets don’t die after stinging, and they will defend their territory fiercely.

Did you know that more than 500,000 Americans visit the emergency room to be treated for insect stings? In addition to the risk of multiple stings, many homeowners underestimate how dangerous it is to use ladders while trying to treat elevated nests. Add in the panic of angry hornets, and you’ve got a recipe for injury. Ground nests are even trickier since they’re harder to see and can surprise you while mowing or working in the yard.

Medical treatment for a sting-related emergency can cost $500 to $1,000 or more without insurance, especially for individuals with known or unknown allergies. For these reasons, experts strongly recommend against DIY solutions for anything more than spotting the nest.

What the Pros Do Differently

Hiring a professional pest control company to remove a hornets nest ensures the job is done safely, completely, and with minimal disruption. The process starts with a thorough inspection, where the technician identifies the nest’s location, type of hornet, and size. This helps determine the best treatment approach. Professionals then use industry-grade products that work quickly to neutralize the nest, often applying them during the early morning or late evening when hornets are less active.

Once the colony has been neutralized, the technician safely removes the nest and disposes of it properly. In some cases, they’ll clean the area and check for other nests or entry points around your home. This extra level of care helps prevent future infestations. On average, professional hornet nest removal costs between $100 and $1,300, depending on the nest’s size, location, and accessibility. While it’s an investment, it’s far more affordable than medical bills or damage to your home caused by neglected nests.

Steps to Take Before Help Arrives

If you’ve already contacted a pest control service and are waiting for their arrival, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep your home and family safe. First, keep children and pets indoors and away from the area where the nest is located. Avoid using outdoor grills, mowers, or noisy tools nearby, as vibrations can agitate hornets. Keep windows and vents closed to prevent them from entering your home.

Whatever you do, resist the urge to spray, knock down, or poke the nest. It will only make things worse.

These actions help keep the hornets calm and reduce the chance of accidental stings before the pros can take over. Taking precautions in the hours or days leading up to your appointment makes the removal process quicker and safer.

How to Keep Hornets from Coming Back

Even after a successful removal, hornets may return if your home provides shelter, water, and food sources. The best defense is a strong prevention plan. Start by sealing up cracks and gaps around windows, siding, soffits, and vents.

Use fine mesh screens over vents and chimneys. Keep outdoor trash bins closed tightly, especially during warm months, and clean up sugary drink spills and food debris during outdoor gatherings.

Trimming trees and overgrown shrubs near your home also makes your property less appealing for nest building. Lastly, consider seasonal pest control inspections, especially in the spring. 

Why Bigfoot Pest Management Is a Smart Choice

Bigfoot Pest Management understands the dangers hornets pose and the stress they bring to families. Our trained technicians specialize in fast, effective hornet nest removal, using safe, targeted treatments that keep your home protected.

We don’t just treat the problem, we help prevent it from coming back. With professional-grade equipment, extensive knowledge, and a commitment to safety, our team can handle nests in hard-to-reach areas without risking your property or your well-being.

cfWe also offer seasonal pest protection plans that help keep hornets and other stingers away for good, giving you peace of mind all year long.

Final Thoughts

Hornets are more than just a nuisance, they’re a real threat when their nests grow too large or get too close to where your family lives and plays. Knowing how to get rid of a hornets nest like a pro means recognizing when it’s time to call in experts, taking action early, and preventing future issues.

If you suspect a hornets nest on your property, take it seriously. The sooner you deal with it, the safer and easier the process will be. Reach out to a local pest control expert who can safely inspect and remove the nest before it becomes a bigger problem.

Need help with a hornets nest? Reach out to Bigfoot Pest Management and take the sting out of the situation safely and smartly.