Hornets in Channel Islands

Hornets aren’t a widespread pest in the United Kingdom. However, they can cause problems in some areas, and their large size and powerful sting makes them hazardous to humans, especially if they are present in large numbers.

Hornets can be difficult to differentiate from wasps. The most obvious signal is that hornets are social and live in large nests while wasps have a tendency to be solitary. This means that if you observe a large number of the insects, they could be hornets. Small numbers of hornets can be controlled on a DIY basis using spray insecticide carefully. 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 many people. These stings can be deadly in extreme cases.

For large infestations or in circumstances where the nest is inaccessible the services of a specialist pest control company should be sought. These companies have access to professional grade insecticides which are extremely 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 meaning any hornets which were not present at the time of the first application will be killed when they come back to the nest. Pest control companies will also be able to remove the nest, which will stop hornets trying to recolonise it.