If you see steady wasp traffic to and from one spot, you probably have a hornet nest nearby.
If you find a wasp or hornet nest, that answers the problem for you. One that you can clearly see is a big enough problem as it is. You don’t want to add to that hidden wasp nests, so here are some signs to look for.
The most obvious sign of an infestation is steady insect traffic focused on a single location. If you notice wasps continuously flying in and out of a specific gap in your siding, a hole in the soffit, or a patch of grass, a nest is likely hidden just out of sight. Simply observing their flight path for a few minutes will clearly reveal exactly where the colony is located.
If you’re not sure what to look for when it comes to nests: open, gray, umbrella-shaped combs. You can often find these under eaves or railings for paper wasps. Larger and enclosed nests that are football-shaped and gray are associated with hornets. You can find wasp nests just about anywhere that is shaded from the sun and rain.
If you think there might be wasps where you can’t see them, there are still ways to check. In a quiet room next to an infested wall, you may hear a faint rustling or buzzing from inside the void. Unusual papery nest material appearing under an overhang can hint at building activity, since wasps gather wood fiber to construct their nests. And wasps that turn defensive whenever you're near one particular spot are usually telling you the nest is close.
Pay attention to the ground as well. Yellow jackets like to build colonies underground, which means it is easy to step on or mow over a nest without realizing it.
If you find a wasp or hornet's nest, don’t provoke it and don’t try to block its entrance. The old saying exists for a reason, after all. If it is a small nest, you may be able to take it out on your own if you are very careful, not allergic, and you have a planned escape route. But if the nest is large or hard to reach, it’s better to call a pro.
If you need help getting rid of wasps or hornets, Mosquito Squad of Southern New Hampshire can help. Mosquito Squad treats for wasps and hornets as part of its perimeter service, which can also help protect your family with up to 90% reduction in mosquito activity on a 21-day cycle through the season.
