What is a European Hornet?
European hornet adults have a long body that is very full-bodied in appearance. They have a brown body, yellow stripes on their abdomen, and a pale colored face. European hornets are very large and grow to be between ¾ and 1 ½ inches in length. Technically speaking, the European hornet is the only true species of hornet found in the United States.
Why do I have them?
European hornets are generally attracted to properties that offer them food sources and a safe location to create a nest. European hornets tend to place their gray, papery nests off the ground inside tree cavities, barns, and other out buildings. They also frequently build their nests inside chimneys, attics, and wall voids. European hornets are considered to be carnivores and feed on a variety of large insects including: grasshoppers, flies, and yellow jackets; they also feed on the sap of trees and shrubs
Are they dangerous?
European hornets are considered to be dangerous. They are aggressive and will defend themselves and their nest with a painful sting, and their smooth stinger allows them to sting their victims repeatedly. The venom from this hornet is strong enough to cause serious and even life-threatening allergic reactions in some people. European hornets are also dangerous to property because they can cause damage to trees and shrubs; they strip their bark to build their nests and to gain access to sap.
Can I do it myself?
Do-it-yourself European hornet control is never recommended. European Hornets inflict painful stings and their venom can cause severe allergic reactions; only professionals who have experience dealing with stinging insects like European hornets and who have proper safety equipment should attempt to eliminate them from a property. It is also important to note that DIY pest control products can be very dangerous to you, your family, your pets, and your plants if not mixed or placed properly. Contact Schendel Pest Services to see how we can quickly and safely help to get rid of a potentially dangerous European hornet nests from your property.
How soon can you get here?
We are dedicated to making sure that we get help to you as quickly as possible. We understand how stressful pest problems can be for you and your family. In most instances, Schendel will respond the same or the very next day.
We follow very strict guidelines, and all of our conventional products are EPA registered. Our trained and experienced service technicians will also inform you of any specific safety measures that may need to be taken before treatment begins.
How much does it cost?
We have standard pricing for all of our pest services, based on average sized homes under 3500 square feet and where the infestation does not require more than the standard number of services. We will always make you aware of any price changes before we start your service. Sign up for your FREE quote today and see how much you can save with Schendel.
How can I prevent this in the future?
Preventing European hornets from invading your property is difficult, but there are a few precautions that you can take to help reduce the likely-hood of an infestation.
- Trim back trees and bushes from your home.
- European hornets are attracted to outside lights; replace white outdoor light bulbs with yellow bulbs to reduce the likelihood of them being attracted to your home.
- Fix holes around your home’s roof line and replace loose or missing roof shingles.
- Seal all cracks in your home’s foundation and exterior walls; caulk gaps around windows and doors.
- Make sure that vent covers are secure and that any chimneys have tight fitting caps on them.
