As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, it’s not uncommon to encounter buzzing insects flying around our gardens or during barbecues. But do you know if you’re dealing with a wasp nest or a hornet nest?
While they may appear similar at first look, understanding the major distinctions between a wasp nest vs hornet nest will help you identify the best course of action and keep you and your family safe. Wasps are smaller and have a narrower waist, but hornets are bigger and have wider waists. Hornets are also more aggressive, and their sting is unpleasant.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at wasp nest vs hornet nest. We’ll also provide you with tips on how to identify them and the best ways to get rid of them. Read on!
A wasp nest is often constructed of a paper-like substance produced by wasps by chewing wood and combining it with their saliva. These nests may be discovered in several places, including trees, bushes, and even your home’s eaves.
Wasp nests can be either tiny or extremely huge, housing hundreds or even thousands of wasps. When guarding their nest, these insects may be violent, therefore use caution when dealing with a wasp nest.
A hornet nest, on the other hand, is normally larger than a wasp nest and can be found in comparable settings as a wasp nest, but it is usually higher above the ground. Hornets are bigger and more aggressive than wasps, with more severe stingers. Hornets also have smaller colonies than wasps, with a typical nest containing between 100 and 400 hornets.
Well, when it comes to distinguishing between a wasp nest vs hornet nest, size is typically the most significant factor.
First and foremost, distinguishing between a wasp nest vs hornet nest is important because it can help you select the best course of action for elimination. Here are some major differences to be aware of:
Size: Wasp nests are typically smaller than hornet nests. A wasp nest can be as small as a golf ball, while a hornet nest can be the size of a basketball or even larger.
Shape: Another way to distinguish between wasp nests and hornet nests is by their shape. Wasp nests are generally round or oval, whereas hornet nests are more irregular in shape.
Location: Wasp nests are typically found in sheltered areas such as under eaves or in bushes. On the other hand, hornet nests are found in exposed areas such as on tree branches or the sides of buildings.
Colour: The colour of the nests is also a distinguishing factor. Wasp nests are usually grey or brown, while hornet nests have a brown or grey colour with white markings.
Behaviour: Hornets are generally more aggressive than wasps, so if you notice the insects flying around the nest in an agitated manner, it may be a hornet nest.
Now that you know the difference between a wasp nest vs a hornet nest, let’s look at how to get rid of them. Here are some of the most effective approaches and tools that can be used:
Using insecticide sprays is a popular and effective method of getting rid of wasps and hornets. Look for a spray that specifically targets the type of insects you are dealing with, and make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Spraying the nest during the night is recommended as the insects are less active and more likely to be inside the nest.
If you prefer a non-toxic approach, using soap and water can be an effective way to deal with smaller wasp nests. Simply mix two tablespoons of dish soap into a spray bottle of water and apply it to the nest. The soap will clog the insects’ breathing pores, causing them to die instantly.
Another chemical-free method is to use a wasp trap. Fill the trap with a sweet liquid like fruit juice or soda and hang it near the nest. The wasps will be attracted to the sweet scent and will become trapped inside the container.
For more extensive or dangerous nests, it’s best to seek the help of professional pest control companies. They have the necessary tools, experience, and expertise to remove the nest safely and eliminate the insects. Attempting to remove a large nest by yourself can be hazardous, so it’s better to leave it to the experts.
Well, getting rid of wasp and hornet nests can be challenging, but with the right tools and methods, it’s possible to eliminate them effectively. Remember to always prioritise safety and consider seeking professional help if necessary.
Finally, understanding the differences between a wasp nest and a hornet nest is crucial for effective removal and ensuring the safety of you and your family. By identifying the key characteristics of each nest, such as size, shape, location, colour, and behaviour, you can determine the best course of action for removal.
Whether you choose to use insecticide sprays, soap and water, wasp traps, or seek professional pest control services, always prioritise safety and take preventative measures to keep these pests from returning.
So, if you’re dealing with a wasp or hornet infestation, it’s best to leave removal to the professionals. At Quint Pest Control, we offer safe and effective wasp control services in Perth to help you get rid of these pests.
Our trained technicians have a better understanding of key differences between wasp nest vs hornet nest and can remove them while taking preventative measures to keep them from coming back. Contact us today for safe and effective pest control services to keep your home and family safe.
