Wasp & Hornet Removal – What You Should Know

Why they appear, what attracts them, and when to take action.

Finding a nest on your property is stressful, but removal and prevention are possible.

Where Wasps & Hornets Come From

Seasonal behavior

In spring, queens start new colonies. By late summer, nests are largest and insects are most defensive.

Nest sites

Eaves/soffits, attic or wall voids, deck undersides, sheds, trees/shrubs, fence posts, and ground cavities (for yellowjackets).

Common types

Paper wasps build open, umbrella-shaped nests. Yellowjackets and bald-faced “hornets” (a type of wasp) make enclosed paper nests and are more aggressive around food.

What You Can Do at Home

  • Keep outdoor food/drinks covered; clean up BBQ spills and pet dishes.
  • Tightly close garbage/compost; rinse recyclables (especially sweet containers).
  • Repair screens; seal gaps at soffits, fascia, and around utility penetrations.
  • Trim vegetation touching structures; store lumber and ladders away from walls.
  • Avoid blocking nest entrances or swatting near a nest—this triggers defensive behavior.
  • Do not use indoor bug bombs for wall-void nests; pressure can drive insects into living areas.

What Attracts Them to Homes

  • Food & scents: Sweet beverages, fruit, meat/BBQ, open garbage, fallen apples.
  • Shelter: Protected cavities (eaves, attics, wall voids, mailbox posts).
  • Water: Leaky hoses, birdbaths, and dripping taps in hot weather.

Why Wasps & Hornets Are a Concern

Sting risk

Defensive behavior near nests can lead to multiple stings; some people may have severe reactions.

Activity escalation

Colonies peak late summer/fall; ground nests and wall-void nests are hard to treat safely.

Access issues

Nests inside structures require proper products and methods to prevent insects entering the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

“Hornet” commonly refers to bald-faced hornets here—technically a type of wasp. Paper wasps are less aggressive; yellowjackets and bald-faced hornets defend nests vigorously.

Small, exposed paper-wasp nests early in the season may be DIY. Larger nests, ground nests, and any nest in a wall/attic are best handled professionally for safety and effectiveness.

No—the paper nest isn’t reused. However, new queens may overwinter nearby and choose the same area, so sealing entry points matters.

We treat the colony at the source using targeted products, then advise on sealing/repair to prevent re-entry. Avoid plugging holes before treatment.

Most exposed nests can be treated on our first visit. Wall-void and high-access nests may require specialized equipment and a scheduled time window (often evening or early morning when activity is low).

Yes—when applied as labeled. We’ll provide re-entry times and simple post-treatment steps.

FREE ESTIMATE

Wasps and hornets are common in Ontario—but they don’t have to take over your yard or home. If you’ve spotted a nest or increasing activity, the first step is understanding the issue. The next step is knowing when it’s time for professional help.