It's Bald-Faced Hornet Season in Columbus: What You Need to Know
It's Bald-Faced Hornet Season in Columbus: What You Need to Know
Summer in Columbus, Ohio means warm weather, backyard barbecues, and time spent outdoors with family and friends. But with the arrival of sunny days also comes an uptick in pest activity—especially from stinging insects like the bald-faced hornet. These aggressive pests pose real safety concerns for homeowners, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts in the Columbus area. If you've noticed large, gray, papery nests high in trees, shrubs, or tucked under eaves, you're likely dealing with bald-faced hornets. Here are some tips from Restoration Pest Management, the experts in hornet removal in Columbus, to help keep you safe this summer.
What Are Bald-Faced Hornets?
Despite their name, bald-faced hornets are actually species of yellowjacket wasp. They are easily identifiable by their black bodies and distinct white markings on their faces and abdomens. These insects are significantly larger than most common wasps and are notorious for their aggressive nature when it comes to protecting their nests. Their aerial nests can house hundreds of workers, all ready to defend their colony.
Bald-faced hornets are known to sting repeatedly and will chase perceived threats for long distances. This makes them particularly dangerous around homes, playgrounds, parks, and businesses, where people and pets are likely to come too close by accident.
When Is Bald-Faced Hornet Season in Columbus?
Bald-faced hornet activity in Columbus typically begins in late spring as queens emerge from hibernation to start new colonies. The real spike in activity occurs during the hot summer months, especially in July and August, when their populations swell and the nests grow rapidly. This is the time when residents are most likely to notice hornets flying in and out of their nests or hovering around outdoor spaces.
During this peak season, bald-faced hornets become extremely territorial. A slight disturbance near their nest such as trimming a tree limb or mowing the lawn can provoke an attack. That’s why it’s critical to recognize the signs early and avoid triggering an aggressive response.
Why Are Bald-Faced Hornets a Problem?
Unlike bee species which can sting only once, bald-faced hornets can sting multiple times. Their venom is potent and can cause significant pain, swelling, and in some cases, severe allergic reactions. For people who are allergic to insect stings, even one encounter can be life-threatening. These hornets also tend to swarm when they feel threatened, making an accidental brush with a nest especially dangerous.
Children and pets are at higher risk since they’re more likely to unknowingly disturb nests while playing outside. Businesses with outdoor seating or operations may also find that hornet activity drives away customers and creates safety liabilities. For these reasons, it’s important to treat bald-faced hornet infestations seriously.
How to Handle a Bald-Faced Hornet Infestation in Columbus
If you think bald-faced hornets are nesting near your property in Columbus, it’s essential to avoid tackling the problem yourself. DIY sprays or nest removal methods can be hazardous and are rarely effective in the long term. Professional pest control services have the tools, equipment, and training to safely remove nests and apply preventative treatments.
At Restoration Pest Management, our trained technicians know exactly how to identify hornet nests, assess the level of infestation, and apply targeted solutions that eliminate the problem at its source. We prioritize safety and use environmentally responsible methods to protect both people and pets while ensuring the nest is fully neutralized.
Protect Your Property with Professional Pest Control in Columbus
Don’t let stinging insects ruin your summer. Restoration Pest Management provides prompt, effective bald-faced hornet removal services throughout the greater Columbus area, including nearby suburbs and rural properties. Our approach goes beyond just removal. We help identify risk factors around your home or business and offer solutions to reduce the likelihood of future infestations.
Whether you're dealing with hornets, wasps, yellowjackets, or other summertime pests, our local team is here to help keep your outdoor spaces safe and comfortable. We’re proud to serve the Columbus, Ohio community with reliable, friendly service and proven pest control solutions.
Don’t Wait—Call Restoration Pest Management Today
Bald-faced hornet nests can expand quickly, increasing the chances of a dangerous encounter. The sooner you act, the easier and safer it is to remove the threat. Contact Restoration Pest Management now to schedule your inspection or treatment. We’re your go-to experts for pest control in Columbus, Ohio.
