Certain species of hornets found in this part of the country can be highly aggressive. These flying insects are social creatures that can be incredibly territorial and try to sting you if you get too close to their nests.
At Harvard Pest Control, we have provided hornet control and other types of pest control in Hattiesburg for over seven decades. We know top industry secrets on safely removing hornets and their nests from your home and property.
Hornet Identification: Key Markers To Help You Identify Hornets
Hornets in Hattiesburg are commonly mistaken for wasps. In fact, many people use the terms "wasp" and "hornet" interchangeably. But these are two very different animals that have several unique characteristics.
Like wasps, hornets have long, thin bodies that are mostly hairless and separated into three segments. However, a hornet's body is usually slightly longer and thicker than a wasp's. Also, hornets can come in a variety of colors, but some of the most common color combinations include white and black and yellow and black. Wasps have several common colors, which include red, black, blue, and black and yellow stripes.
Some types of stinging insects are social creatures, and some insects choose to live alone. However, all types of hornets are social creatures and live in a nest with several other hornets. A hornet's nest will typically look like it’s made of paper. Usually, the nest is large and shaped like a teardrop. If you can look closer at a hornet's nest, you will see it has hexagonal combs inside.
Stings And Health Risks: The Dangers Of Hornet Encounters
Similar to wasps and bees, hornets have venom that they will inject into your body if they sting you. Because hornets tend to be larger, their bodies can contain more venom, which can cause a more painful sting. Hornets also tend to be more territorial than wasps or bees. If you get too close to a hornet's nest, you will likely get stung by several hornets at one time. Being stung by many hornets could cause your body to inject too much of the venom, which could cause health complications. Also, some people are allergic to the venom, and getting stung even one time could cause the person to experience severe swelling, trouble breathing, and other severe allergic reactions.
Creating A Hornet-Free Zone: Essential Steps For Prevention
Hornets will usually come to your property looking for food or water. They will likely build a nest in or near your home if they find a reliable food and water source. While hornets usually build their nest outside, they will nest inside walls and attics if they can get inside your home. If you want to keep hornets away from your property, some of the things that you can do include:
- Address any insect problems that you have around your home
- Remove standing water from outside your house and place a cover over your pool when not in use
- Try not to leave your exterior lights on all night
- Replace your bright exterior light bulbs with soft, yellow light bulbs
You should also inspect the exterior of your home to ensure that there are no holes in your siding or other parts of the house. If you see any potential openings, you should seal them as soon as possible.
Experienced Hornet Control: Restoring Peace With Professional Control
The most effective way to keep hornets away from your home is to have our professional home pest control specialist treat your yard regularly. At Havard Pest Control, we can get rid of the hornets that are currently in your yard and prevent any more from infesting your Hattiesburg property. Give us a call today.