How to Get Rid of an Infestation of Hornets, Wasps & Bees

No one likes to be plagued with insects like hornets, wasps and bees, and their presence increases during the warm spring and summer months when flowers are back in bloom and insects like cicadas have become fully active. For many people, these types of infestations can prove dangerous as they are highly allergic to stings and can go into anaphylactic shock. Read on to learn how you can safely remove these insects.

Several layers of clothing (sweaters, gloves, long pants)

Ski mask or hood to protect your face

Pesticide spray like Raid

Water hose (optional)

Identify the exact type of hornet, wasp or bee with which you're having a problem. Before you go outside and attempt to kill the insects, you first must know what type of bee or wasp it is. Your removal method will be more effective and help prevent future problems. To identify these insects, note specifics like their color and size. Identification is especially useful for wasps because of their several different species.

Spray the entrance of the nests with a powerful pesticide like Black Flag Wasp Bee & Hornet Control and Ortho Hornet & Wasp Killer. These pesticide brands are specifically made to deal with these insects. However, if Black Flag and Ortho are unavailable, you can substitute them with an effective pesticide like Raid. Spraying is best done during the late evening hours when the insects aren't as active and are usually all inside the nest. Before spraying, make sure to wear protective clothing that can prevent stingers from making contact with your skin. A full bee-suit is not required, but you should wear several layers of thick clothing like sweaters, jackets and gloves. Also make sure to protect your face by wearing a ski cap or makeshift hood.

Knock down the nests after spraying. After you have allowed the spray to fully penetrate the nest, physically remove it by knocking it down. Many people spray water or set fire to it to disintegrate the nest; so choose a method that works best for you. Make absolutely sure that there are no hornets, wasps or bees left alive in the nest before you knock it down to prevent insect attacks. Keep your protective clothing on at all times.

Kill wasps by spraying them with citrus extract. Citrus extract is known to kill wasps on contact and is best used by pouring it in a spray bottle and using it around gardens and flowers where the insects are likely to congregate.

For natural remedies to getting rid of this type of infestation, refer to the links below.

If you are stung anywhere on the face or neck, seek medical assistance immediately.