Hornets become especially active in August, and without preparation, they can pose a real risk.
Whether you’re gardening, enjoying your backyard, or just grabbing the mail, it’s prime time to run into hornets and other stinging insects. Knowing how to reduce your risk of getting stung and what to do if you find a nest nearby is key to staying safe this season.
Let’s walk through practical hornet safety tips, what to avoid, and when it’s time to call a pest control pro.
Key Takeaways
- Hornets are highly active in late summer, especially near homes and food sources.
- Avoid swatting at hornets; this increases your chances of getting stung.
- Check for nests around eaves, attics, garages, and hollow trees.
- Call a pest control expert to remove hornet nests safely.
Why August Is Peak Hornet Season
In Michigan, hornet colonies reach their peak in late summer. European hornets and other stinging insects like yellow jackets and paper wasps have spent the warm months building up their colonies. By August, those colonies are large, aggressive, and highly protective of their nests.
Hornets are attracted to fallen fruit, sugary drinks, and uncovered trash. They may become aggressive if disturbed. Unlike honey bees, hornets don’t lose their stinger and can sting repeatedly, making them more dangerous during the fall season.
How to Spot Hornets and Their Nests
Hornets are a type of wasp, but they tend to be larger and more aggressive. In Michigan, you’re most likely to encounter European hornets or bald-faced hornets. Both build nests that look like papery gray or brown globes, often found in:
- Tree branches or hollow trees
- Attics and garages
- Roof eaves or porch ceilings
- Inside wall voids or exterior siding
If you notice increased hornet activity around your home, take a step back and observe where they’re flying. That may help you locate the nest without putting yourself at risk.
How to Stay Safe Around Hornets
Keeping yourself and your family safe from hornet stings comes down to awareness and prevention. Here are some common-sense hornet safety tips:
Stay Calm Around Hornets
If a hornet flies near you, resist the urge to swat at it. Quick movements can make hornets feel threatened and more likely to sting. Instead, remain calm and still, then slowly walk away.
Dress Smart
Wear light-colored, protective clothing if you’re working outdoors. Long sleeves and pants reduce skin exposure. Avoid floral prints and strong scents, which attract stinging insects.
Be Cautious Near Food
Hornets love sugary drinks and protein-rich foods. If you’re eating outside, keep lids on containers and beverages. Don’t leave food scraps or trash sitting out.
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home for gaps around windows, vents, and soffits. Sealing up potential entryways helps prevent hornets from nesting in attics or wall voids.
Watch for Nesting Sites
Hornets often build nests in quiet, undisturbed areas. Check under eaves, porch railings, and inside sheds. Be cautious when trimming shrubs or cleaning out garages.
What to Do If You’re Stung
Hornet stings are painful and can be hazardous for those with allergies. If you’re stung, here’s what to do:
- Clean the sting site with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Take antihistamines for itching or mild reactions.
- Use an EpiPen if you have a known allergy and experience difficulty breathing or signs of anaphylaxis.
- Seek medical attention for multiple stings or severe allergic reactions.
For some people, hornet stings can be life-threatening. Never ignore symptoms like chest tightness, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
Should You Remove a Hornet Nest Yourself?
DIY hornet nest removal is risky, especially in August, when hornets are more aggressive. Even if you have protective clothing, getting close to a large nest can trigger a swarm.
Instead, call a licensed exterminator or insect control technician. They have the proper gear, treatments, and experience to remove hornet nests safely, especially in challenging locations like eaves, attics, or hollow trees.
Don’t Confuse Hornets With Honey Bees
It’s important to distinguish between hornets and honey bees. While hornets are aggressive and territorial, honey bees play a vital role in pollination and agriculture. If you spot a beehive on your property, don’t spray it; contact a local beekeeping association instead. Many will relocate hives without harming the bees.
Conclusion
Michigan’s hornet season peaks in August, and with hornets becoming more aggressive as their colonies grow, it’s essential to stay alert. Keep food and drinks covered when outdoors. Watch for early signs of nests in eaves, attics, or sheds.
If you spot a hornet nest on your property, don’t try to remove it yourself. Even small nests can turn dangerous quickly, especially in late summer. At Pest Pros of Michigan, our licensed technicians use safe, proven methods to remove hornet nests and prevent future infestations.
See a hornet nest? Don’t risk a sting. Call us for safe, professional removal anywhere in West Michigan.
FAQs
What should I do if I find a hornet nest near my home?
Avoid approaching the nest and don’t try to remove it yourself. Hornets defend their nests aggressively. Contact a pest control service to inspect and safely remove the nest.
How can I prevent hornets from nesting on my property?
Seal gaps around your home, keep outdoor food covered, remove fallen fruit from the yard, and regularly check for early signs of nesting in eaves, sheds, and other quiet areas.
Are hornet stings more dangerous than wasp stings?
Yes. Hornet stings are often more painful and contain more venom, increasing the risk of severe allergic reactions.
