Wasp nests can pose a serious threat to safety if not handled properly. While some homeowners may attempt DIY removal, wasp nest removal is often best left to professionals for several reasons. Professional exterminators have the proper protective equipment, products, and experience to remove nests safely and effectively. They can also identify different types of wasps and nest locations to fully eliminate the colony and prevent reinfestation. This article will examine when you need a professional for wasp nest removal versus when DIY removal may suffice.
When should I call a professional for wasp nest removal?
There are several instances when wasp nest removal is best left to the professionals:
The nest is very large or situated in a difficult location
Large nests containing hundreds or thousands of wasps can be extremely dangerous to remove yourself. Additionally, nests built in wall voids, attics, chimneys, or high up underneath eaves can be difficult to access safely without professional equipment. Professionals have pole tools that allow them to safely treat and remove nests in hard to reach spots.
You are unsure of the type of wasp
There are several different types of stinging wasps and hornets, including:
| Wasp Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Yellowjackets | Black and yellow, builds nests in the ground or wall voids |
| Paper wasps | Reddish brown with long legs, build open comb nests |
| Hornets | Larger, builds gray paper nests in trees and shrubs |
Some species like yellowjackets can be very aggressive and a large nest close to your home may require professional removal for safety. Identification by a professional helps determine the best course of action.
You are allergic to wasp stings
If you have a known allergy to wasp venom, it is crucial to have professional removal due to the high risk of being stung. Trying to remove a nest yourself with an allergy could be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening if you go into anaphylactic shock.
The nest is near high-traffic areas
Nests located close to deck areas, porches, play areas, or main entries pose too high a risk for disturbing the wasps during day-to-day activities. Professionals can restrict access and properly treat and remove these nests to reduce chances of multiple stings.
You do not have proper protective equipment
Safely removing a wasp nest requires wearing thick, protective clothing from head to toe along with other precautions. If you do not have the right clothing and equipment, it’s better to call the experts to avoid multiple stings.
When can I attempt DIY wasp nest removal?
There are some scenarios where it may be okay to remove a wasp nest yourself:
The nest is very small and exposed
If you discover a new, small paper wasp nest of just a few cells attached to a bush, tree limb, or outer wall of your home, it may be feasible to remove it yourself. Use extreme caution and proper protective gear even with smaller nests though.
The nest is abandoned and no wasps are present
If the nest is from a prior season and you have observed no wasp activity around the nest for several weeks, it should be safe to remove. However, approach with care in case there are wasps still occupying the nest. Monitor the location for several days afterwards to ensure the nest was abandoned.
You are not allergic and have access to thick protective clothing
If you are not allergic, you can wear multiple layers of thick clothing including a hooded jacket, gloves, and boots with trousers tucked in to avoid stings. Use sprays after dark when wasps are less active. Exercise extreme caution using ladders when elevated nests are out of easy reach.
You have an effective wasp spray and other removal tools
Use aerosol sprays designed specifically for wasps that have an extended spray range of 15 feet or more. These can kill wasps on contact while limiting your exposure. Have tools like extendable pole saws to cut down tree branches with nests.
The nest location allows you to avoid wasp flight paths
Removal is easier if you can access the nest from behind or underneath avoiding primary wasp entry points. This reduces chances of disturbing foraging wasps that could swarm to sting.
You can remove the nest at night when wasps are less active
Cooler nighttime temperatures make wasps more sluggish and less defensive. Spray nest openings after sundown for the best chance of killing hidden wasps emerging from the nest.
Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Wasp Nest Removal
If attempting self-removal, follow these steps to maximize safety:
Step 1: Prepare Protective Clothing and Gear
Wear the following equipment:
– Hooded jacket, long pants and gloves
– Duct tape trouser cuffs tight to shoes
– Mesh beekeeping veil over your head
– Goggles to protect your eyes
– Wasp spray (2 cans minimum)
Also prepare the following tools:
– Extension pole with scraping tool to knock down nests
– Ladder if elevated nest site
– Trash bags, hammer and pry bar
– Flashlight for night removal
Step 2: Plan Your Strategy in Advance
– Observe nest activity during the day – are wasps continually entering and exiting? This means it is still actively occupied.
– Determine entry points and flight paths – you want to avoid these areas during removal.
– Pick nighttime for removal to minimize defensive wasp activity.
– Have an escape route planned and a spotter to assist.
– Leave exterior lights off to avoid attracting wasps.
Step 3: Prepare the Nest Removal Area
– Restrict pets and children from the area.
– Have a shop vacuum ready to collect dead wasps and debris.
– Remove any food sources or fragrances from yourself and the area.
– Turn off interior lights near windows to avoid drawing wasps inside.
Step 4: Remove the Nest
– Approach the area slowly and calmly when full dark. Keep movements smooth and avoid jerky motions.
– Have wasp spray at the ready, carefully aim, and spray liberally into the nest opening(s) from maximum distance. Spray for at least 15 seconds per opening.
– Wait at least 15 minutes before approaching the nest. Listen for buzzing that would indicate active wasps. Re-apply spray if needed.
– Use an extension pole with a scraping tool to knock down the nest into a trash bag held underneath. Lower it gently to avoid scattering wasps.
– Seal the trash bag tightly and dispose of it in an outdoor trash can right away.
– Vacuum up any stray wasps and nest debris still in the area.
Step 5: Treat the Area and Watch for Wasps
– Apply residual sprays to deter future nest building in the same location.
– Keep an eye out in the following days for any returning wasp activity near the nest site.
– Place traps periodically to catch emerging wasp queens in early spring before nest establishment.
Conclusion
Removing an active wasp nest carries inherent dangers from multiple painful stings. While professional removal services may cost over $100 on average nationwide, this is often money well spent for your health and safety. However, DIY removal can be successful in limited cases with proper precautions, protection, equipment, and strategic timing to avoid disturbing defensive wasps. Avoid overconfidence dealing with these venomous insects and know when it’s wiser to call in the experts if a nest is large, established, or situated in a very difficult location. With caution and planning though, some homeowners can tackle smaller, more accessible nests – just be prepared to retreat and re-apply treatment if wasps remain active in the nest.