Knowing when to remove a hornet’s nest is just as important as knowing how. Because hornets can be very dangerous when they are disturbed and feel threatened, timing and approach are important.
In a nutshell, early morning or late evening is the best time to remove a hornet’s nest. The best season to remove a hornet’s nest is fall or winter if you have an outdoor nest. Dusk or after dark are good times to approach the nest, as the temperature is cooler and the hornets are less active, which means they are less likely to leave their home and sting you.
Just in case, though, you should wear long pants, long sleeves, and gloves. Using a long-distance spray meant for hornets, spray the nest. Repeat this until you see no more activity from the nest. Only then should you attempt to remove it. We advise against removing a nest on your own. For your safety, it’s wise to call a hornet exterminator in Phoenix to handle the job.
Understanding Hornet Behavior
Hornets tend to be at their most active during the day. This is when they leave the nest in search of food and materials for building their nests. They are most likely to defend their nest aggressively if they are disturbed during this period of high activity.
- Nighttime Inactivity: Once night falls, hornets slow down and get less active as they return to their nests. As said above, this is the best time to spray and remove a nest because the hornets aren’t as likely to go on the attack.
- Seasonal Changes: Hornet activity varies by season. In spring, the queens come out to start new colonies. By the time summer hits, nests get bigger in size as well as population. As fall comes around, most of the hornets die, and only the queens remain to hibernate and then begin the cycle all over again in spring.
How to Remove a Hornet’s Nest
Before you approach the nest, wear protective, thick clothing and gear. Ideally, you want to don long sleeves and pants that have elastic cuffs so the hornets can’t crawl inside. Cover your head and neck with a jacket or hoodie.
Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands and goggles to protect your eyes from angry hornets and flying debris.
Choose an insecticide spray meant for hornets. Get one with a long reach, about 15 to 20 feet, to allow you to stay at a safe distance. Here’s a quick guide:
- Wait until evening when hornets are less active and will be resting in the nest.
- Stand back at a safe distance, then take aim at the nest’s entrance.
- Spray generously to thoroughly cover the nest; use multiple cans if needed.
Removing the Nest
Next, you’ll just have to wait till all the hornets are dead. Once you’re sure there’s no more activity going into or coming out of the nest, follow these steps:
- Using a heavy-duty trash bag, carefully cover the nest, gently detaching it; seal the bag tightly.
- Clean the area with soap and water to get rid of lingering pheromones that could attract new hornets.
- To prevent re-infestation, use deterrents to discourage hornets from building their nests nearby in the future.
Professional Hornet Nest Removal in Phoenix, AZ
It’s always best to let a professional remove your hornet’s nest, especially if it is quite large and located somewhere inaccessible. Contact us for a free quote on hornet removal in Phoenix, AZ at 602-338-9223.