Discovering a hornet nest in your yard or seeing hornets flying around when trying to enjoy your patio is something no homeowner wants to deal with. These stinging insects can interrupt your outdoor fun in no time flat. But your Houston pest control team at All-Safe Pest & Termite is here to help.
Let’s look at how to identify hornets and what you can do to keep them from residing in your yard or home.
Hornet Identification: Key Markers To Help You Identify Hornets
In Houston, European hornets are the most common species. These insects are often mistaken for wasps but have several unique markers that show just how different they are.
Here are a few characteristics to look for before you schedule an appointment for hornet control in Houston.
- Hornets grow between 3/4 and 1 1/2 inches in length.
- Hornets are brown with yellow stripes on their abdomen, making them easy to tell apart from common wasps and other stinging insects, typically a mixture of yellow and black.
- Though they’re similar in shape to wasps, hornets are much more robust, and their bodies are typically much larger.
These characteristics make it much easier to tell if you need hornet pest control or a different type of treatment to keep stinging bugs away from your home. If you’re ever unsure what type of insects you have, contact your pest control team.
Stings And Health Risks: The Dangers Of Hornet Encounters
Hornets are not known to carry diseases or to be able to infect humans with any bacteria or viruses. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not dangerous. These insects can sting and will if provoked.
Their stings can be incredibly painful when they happen and lead to swelling, pain, and itching at the site of the wound for several days after the sting. Though the sting itself shouldn’t be a major issue for most people, it can spark an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive or allergic to their venom. These reactions can be severe, and if you think you or a loved one is experiencing a reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Though their sting is the scariest thing for humans, it’s not only people impacted by the presence of hornets. These insects are known to decimate honey bee populations nearby. That’s why working with an expert trained in the proper pest control for wasps and hornets is essential. By scheduling an appointment, you’ll protect your loved ones and your local population of helpful pollinators.
Experienced Hornet Control: Restoring Peace with Professional Control
Though many DIY wasp and hornet control products are on the market, they’re not always effective. And worse, they can put you at risk for stings when you’re using them. Instead of trying to get rid of hornets yourself, you’ll want to work with an experienced professional.
Creating a Hornet-Free Zone: Essential Steps For Prevention
Though professional pest control for hornets is always the most effective route, you can do a few things to reduce your risk of these insects taking up residence in your yard. Here are a few steps to take immediately:
- Keep trash cans covered tightly.
- Remove fruit that has fallen from trees in your yard.
- Pick up spills of sugary beverages and fruit juice as soon as they happen.
By following these tips, you’ll help keep hornets from coming back. But if you have an active infestation, contact us today to get started and learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Houston.