Know the Dangers of Hornets
Did you know that hornets are beneficial to the environment? They eat other nuisance insects like aphids.
Unfortunately, they can become a nuisance themselves. So what are the dangers of hornets that you should be aware of? An undiscovered hornet nest can turn an afternoon outdoors into a painful experience.
But if you already know the basics about hornets, you can avoid painful and sometimes even fatal stings. Read on to learn what to be aware of when it comes to dangerous hornets near your home and property.
Hornets Stings Have Stronger Venom
Hornets can get aggressive when they feel threatened, especially if you are near their nest. And it doesn’t take much for them to decide you are an enemy.
Hornet stings are excruciating. Their venom is more potent than wasps’ and can cause anaphylactic shock in some people.
One hornet can sting you many times. And it won’t hesitate to do so!
Are Hornets Dangerous Enough to Kill You?
An average of 62 people die every year from hornet stings. Generally, it takes at least 1000 hornet stings to kill a human adult. And it takes an average of 500 stings to kill a child.
That doesn’t mean you have to get swarmed by 1000 hornets to be in danger. One hornet can sting many times.
Hornet Stings Can Cause an Allergic Reaction in Some People
Some people are more allergic to hornets than others and may have a severe reaction to a sting. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or your throat starts to swell, call 911 immediately and go to the hospital.
What Are the Dangers of Hornets That You Should Be Aware Of?
In general, the larger the hornet, the more dangerous its sting. The Asian giant hornet, for example, is the world’s largest hornet.
You may remember hearing about the “murder hornets” in the news in past years. That’s the Asian giant hornet!
Asian giant hornets are one of the most dangerous because their venom is toxic. But it’s rare to find one in North America, so you’re very unlikely to run into them.
The European hornet is the only true hornet in North America. It’s the type of hornet that you are most likely to encounter. Its venom is less toxic than the Asian hornet, but it is still excruciating!
Hornets Nests Can Be Dangerous
Hornets can be a nuisance animal because they build nests near or in homes. They like to build nests in elevated areas. You might find them in trees, under roof eaves, attics, garages, and sheds.
Other types of hornets build their nest in the ground. These nests can be challenging to spot. If you step on one, you’ll likely get stung.
Hornets eat a variety of other bugs. They may be attracted to garbage or food scraps left outside. Some will take up residence in rodent burrows in your garden, so watch your step!
Call a Professional if There’s a Hornet Nest on Your Property
Still wondering, “Should I be worried about a hornet’s nest?” and what are the dangers of hornets? Hopefully, this article sheds some light on these stinging insects. Remember to be especially wary of getting close to a hornet’s nest!
Dealing with hornet nests by yourself can be dangerous. The odds are it won’t be worth the pain of doing it yourself!
If you find a hornet’s nest on your property, call a professional to have it removed. A professional will have the proper equipment and experience to remove a hornet nest quickly and safely to avoid the dangers of hornets.
If you identify a hornet nest in your home or on your property, call Garfield Pest Control! We’ll come out to your place and remove the nest without risking anyone in your family getting stung. We’re here to help you safely get rid of dangerous hornets!
