Hornet Control in St. Johns County, FL

How to Get Rid of Hornets in St. Johns County, FL

Hornets thrive in St. Johns County due to the warm, humid climate. Similar to wasps and bees, hornets can sting humans when they feel threatened, potentially causing serious health complications. Some of the most common hornet species in St. Johns County include the:

• Southern yellowjacket
• Eastern yellowjacket
• Bald-faced hornet

Each of these species has unique characteristics, which we’ll explore further in this article. Removing hornets yourself can be hazardous. We highly recommend contacting a professional pest control company at the first sign of an infestation. Professionals are equipped to safely remove nests and prevent hornets from returning, offering ongoing protection for your home. All U Need Pest Control has the expertise to manage hornet infestations in St. Johns County. Our pest control strategies are tailored to your specific situation, taking into account the severity of the infestation and environmental factors. Our treatment plan may include:

A Comprehensive Inspection

Our team will perform a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the hornet infestation and the species involved. This helps us create a targeted solution for your specific needs.

Nest Removal

Hornet nests are best handled by professionals. Hornets can be aggressive when defending their nests, and removing one without proper precautions can be dangerous. We use specialized safety gear to remove nests and ensure that hornets don’t return to the same location in the future.

Targeted Treatments

We apply safe, targeted treatments such as insecticides that won’t harm your family or your home. These treatments are effective in eliminating the hornets and reducing the risk of them coming back.

If you notice hornets on your property, contact our team as soon as possible. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it is to protect your family and prevent the infestation from escalating.

Signs of a Hornet Infestation in St. Johns County, FL

Spotting a few hornets doesn’t always mean there’s an infestation, but certain signs indicate a growing problem. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:

Hornet Sightings

Hornets are attracted to dry, sheltered areas like attics, roof eaves, trees, and shrubs. If you see hornets frequently in these areas, it’s time to call a professional. Watch for them entering or exiting through small openings, such as holes in your walls or attic vents.

Increased Hornet Activity

In St. Johns County, hornets are active year-round, but if you notice a spike in activity or droppings near your home, you may be dealing with an infestation.

Hornet Nests

Hornet nests resemble footballs and usually have a single, large opening. If you spot one on your property, avoid approaching it and contact a pest control company to safely remove it.

Other signs include:

• Chewed wood around your home, which hornets use to build their nests.
• Dead insects such as flies or bees near your property, which hornets prey on.
• Hornet body fluids, which may appear as small stains on walls or windows.

Regular inspections can help prevent an infestation from getting out of control. The next section explains how to check for hornets safely.

What Do Hornets Look Like?

Different hornet species have distinct physical characteristics. Here’s how to identify some of the most common species in St. Johns County:

Southern Yellowjackets

These hornets are around half an inch long, with black and yellow stripes and clear wings. Queens are typically larger and have orange coloring.

Eastern Yellowjackets

Slightly larger than their southern counterparts, Eastern yellowjackets share the same yellow and black striped patterns.

Bald-Faced Hornets

Bald-faced hornets are black with white markings, especially on the face. They also have dark brown translucent wings.

Since hornets resemble wasps or bees, professional identification might be necessary to determine the specific type of pest on your property.

How to Prevent Hornets in St. Johns County, FL

To prevent hornets from returning after treatment, try these strategies:

Reduce Outdoor Clutter

Hornets often nest in compost or leaf piles. Keeping your yard tidy can reduce the risk of an infestation.

Trim Vegetation

Overgrown bushes and trees provide hornets with shelter. Regularly trim plants to make your property less appealing to them.

Get Rid of Food Waste

Sugary foods attract hornets. Properly dispose of food waste to keep hornets at bay.

Seal Trash Cans

Hornets can be drawn to open trash cans, so make sure lids are tightly sealed, and keep cans away from your house.

Cover Holes in Your Lawn

Some species nest underground, so filling in any holes in your lawn can prevent them from settling there.

Other prevention tips include:

• Avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or strong fragrances outdoors, as these can attract hornets.
• Keep outdoor eating areas clean and free of food residue.
• Plant hornet-repelling plants like lavender around your yard.

Our pest control team offers ongoing advice and preventive measures as part of our service to help you keep hornets away in the long term.