If you are allergic to hornets, do not take down the nest yourself. Call a professional exterminator or ask someone else to take it down for you.
Bald-faced hornets are the most common hornets in North America. The hornet’s body is mostly black with white markings on their abdomen and head. Their nests are usually found at least 3 feet (0. 91 m) off the ground and are primarily gray in color. [2] X Research source European hornets are common hornets in North America and Europe. Their bodies are yellow and red, and they can grow up to 1 inch (2. 5 cm) in length. Their nests are usually in a hollow tree or wall void 6 feet (1. 8 m) off the ground. [3] X Research source Asian giant hornets/murder hornets are the largest hornet species that are primarily found in Asia and are extremely aggressive. Their bodies are orange and brown and can grow up to 2 inches (5. 1 cm) in length. The Asian giant hornets’ nests are usually underground or in tree cavities. [4] X Research source
Wear a beekeeping suit if you have access to one. These will protect you the best from hornet stings.
Make sure there are no tripping hazards in the direction you plan on running.
Don’t stand on a ladder to remove the nest. If you fall off the ladder, you could hurt yourself and get stung.
Insecticidal dust is typically sold with a hand duster and can be purchased at your local yard care or gardening store.
See if you can find another area on the nest where hornets are entering and exiting. This may indicate a second hole that you should spray.
Don’t aim your flashlight directly at the entrance hole or else you could disturb the hornets inside.
Some hornets will escape before they’re covered in dust but they will return to the nest eventually.
The dust usually works within 24 hours.
Insecticides can be bought at your local yard care or gardening store.
Remember to wear your protective clothing and to spray the insecticide after sunset when most of the hornets will be dormant.
The hornets will start to swarm as soon as the nest is under attack. Focus on the entrance to prevent hornets from flying near you.
If you still notice hornets around the nest, use another application of your insecticide to kill them.
Use a thick garbage bag meant for yard work if you can.
Scrapers can be purchased at your local hardware or homecare store. If the nest is hanging from a branch, use a pair of pruners to cut it off.
Thick plastic bags are too thick for the hornets to bite through.
