Great Expert Tips From…
EMPIRE PEST CONTROL
EXPERT LOCAL PEST CONTROL IN LONDON
Hornet Vs Wasp: What‘s The Difference Between Them?
Expert Tips From UK Based, Local London Pest Technicians
When you see yellow and black buzzing insects around your property it can be really scary. It’s difficult
to find out what infestation you might have if you don’t know the difference. To be able to treat the
problem, it’s important to know what insects you’re dealing with.
EMPIRE PEST CONTROL LONDON | www.empirepestcontrol.co.uk | T: 0800 633 5220 or 0203 633 2143
Wasps
The most common type of wasp is a yellow jacket. They live in a big nest with a queen wasp who lays
eggs and then the worker wasps. These workers construct the nests out of pulp, mud, plants and
secretions from the wasps themselves. The materials are collected and constructed into a honeycomb
pattern which is then surrounded by a protective layer. Wasp nests can be found anywhere from trees
to lofts.
Hornets
Hornets are actually considered to be wasps, which makes it a slightly more confusing. They also look
very similar to yellow jackets. A hornet is considered to be a social wasp, so they will build their nests by
chewing on wood to make the papery pulp. Most hornet nests can be found in trees and shrubs, but
sometimes they can be found in cavities as well. Hornets are especially aggressive, especially when they
feel threatened.
EMPIRE PEST CONTROL LONDON | www.empirepestcontrol.co.uk | T: 0800 633 5220 or 0203 633 2143
The Difference Between Wasps & Hornets
The best way to tell whether you have hornets or wasps is to check the colony size. A wasp colony will
be smaller, with fewer than 100 wasps. To identify a hornet nest, hornet colonies are a lot larger. It’s
very difficult to tell the difference between the two by the appearance. The nest shape and where you
find it is also another good indicator which insect it is.
Wasps will build their nests so that they’re open, and they will usually suspend them from solid objects.
The nests will be in a protected area, such as in roof eaves or under a covered porch. Hornets build a
large and fully enclosed nest on trees or in shrubbery. Both insects will become very aggressive if they
feel that they or their nest is under threat.
Get Rid Of A Wasp Infestation
Wasps and hornets are incredibly dangerous to have on your property, especially around young children
or if someone is allergic to their sting. If you are seeing a lot of flying insects around your home, it’s very
possible you have either a wasp control problem or a hornet infestation. This is the first sign for you to
contact a pest control professional.
EMPIRE PEST CONTROL LONDON | www.empirepestcontrol.co.uk | T: 0800 633 5220 or 0203 633 2143