Hornets in Berwickshire

Hornets are not a common pest in the United Kingdom. However, they can cause issues in a few areas, and their substantial size and powerful sting makes them harmful to humans, especially when they are present in large numbers.

Hornets can be difficult to distinguish from wasps. The most noticeable marker is that hornets are social and live in large nests while wasps tend to be solitary. This means that if you see a large number of the insects, they might be hornets. Small numbers of hornets can be controlled on a DIY basis using spray insecticide with care. However, this is dangerous due to the sting of the hornet. Hornets can sting several times without dying and their stings can cause allergic reactions in some people. These stings can be deadly in rare cases.

For large infestations or in situations where the nest is inaccessible the services of a professional pest control company should be sought. These companies have access to professional class insecticides which are very effective on hornets. These insecticides may be delivered either by spray, a liquid application or in dust form. All of these methods will leave some residual effect which means that any hornets that were not present at the time of the first application will be eradicated when they return to the nest. Pest control companies will also be able to remove the nest, which will stop hornets trying to recolonise it.