Identifying a Hornet NestHornets are larger and bulkier than common wasps. If you notice hornets flying in and out of small openings in walls, roofs, loft spaces, or even underground, you likely have a nest nearby. Activity is most common between May and November.
In autumn, hornets often enter homes, drawn to artificial light. While less aggressive than wasps, they will sting if their nest is threatened. Hornet nests are made of a paper-like material, usually grey or beige, resembling papier-mâché.
Why You Should Remove a Hornet NestLeaving a hornet nest untreated allows the colony to produce new queens, which hibernate and create more nests in spring. This can lead to recurring infestations around your property.
✔ Do NOT block the nest entrance – this can make hornets aggressive.
✔ Keep pets and children away from the area.
🛑 Post-treatment activity: The nest may remain active for up to 3 hours, though activity usually stops sooner.
🛑 In summer, hornet activity may linger for up to 2 weeks; in autumn, up to 20 days.
🛑 Keep windows closed and inform neighbours until all hornet activity has ceased.
🛑 Once inactive, the nest is safe to leave in place, as it won’t rot or smell. If removing it, wait at least 4 weeks to avoid any risk from late-hatching hornets.
At Pest Shield North East, we provide fast, effective, and professional hornet nest removal across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead, and surrounding areas.
🔹 Safe & Approved Insecticides: We use biodegradable, low-odour, non-staining treatments that are safe for homes and businesses.
🔹 Professional Application: Our fully qualified technician applies a professional-grade insecticide directly to the nest or entry point for rapid eradication.
🔹 Treatment Report: We provide a detailed treatment report for your records.
Insecticide Methods We Use:
✔ Residual Sprays – For targeted application
✔ Dust Powders – Ideal for wall cavities and hard-to-reach spaces
✔ Aerosol one shot – Used in lofts and large voids
📌 Hornet activity has increased in Newcastle, Durham, Sunderland, and Gateshead, particularly in years with fewer wasps.
📌 Hornets become a nuisance in autumn, often buzzing around indoor lights.
📌 Their nests usually contain hundreds of hornets, compared to thousands in a wasp nest.
📌 Queens emerge in spring and begin building nests. By late summer, the colony focuses on producing new queens before dying off in winter.
Don’t let hornets take over your home or business! Pest Shield offers expert, same-day hornet control across the North East.
Pest Control ServicesPEST-SHIELD provides expert pest control services in Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham—keeping homes and businesses safe and pest-free.
For fast, reliable, and safe pest control solutions. Call us on 0191 7166647
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