As summer approaches, one of the most common pests you’ll encounter around your home or property are wasps and hornets. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between paper wasp nests vs hornet nests. One of those differences is the type of nest they build. In this blog, we’ll be taking a closer look at paper wasp nests versus hornet nests so you can better identify and protect yourself from these pests!
What is a paper wasp nest?
Paper wasps are social insects that live in large colonies and build nests made out of paper-like material. These nests are usually found in sheltered areas such as the eaves of buildings, under decks, or in shrubs and trees. The nests are made from chewed wood, saliva, and other materials that the wasps gather. The nest has a distinctive honeycomb pattern that is made up of multiple cells. Each of the cells is used to store food and house the wasp larvae.
Paper wasp nests can range in size from a few cells to several hundred cells. The number of cells depends on the size of the colony. Some nests may contain only a few dozen wasps, while others can be home to several hundred of them.
What is a hornet nest?
Hornets are also social insects that live in large colonies and build nests made out of paper-like material. However, unlike paper wasps, hornets build their nests in exposed areas such as on branches, twigs, or in open areas. The nests of hornets are larger than paper wasps and can contain up to several thousand individuals. In addition to being larger, hornet nests are also more aggressive than paper wasp nests.
Differences between paper wasp nests vs hornet nests
There are several key differences between paper wasp nests and hornet nests. One of the most obvious differences is the location of the nests. As mentioned before, paper wasps build their nests in sheltered areas, while hornets build their nests in exposed areas.
Another difference between paper wasp nests and hornet nests is the size and shape. Paper wasp nests are usually smaller and more compact than hornet nests. They are typically shaped like an upside down umbrella with a circular opening at the bottom. Hornet nests, on the other hand, are usually much larger and are shaped like an inverted teardrop with an opening at the bottom.
Another difference is the material used to make the nests. Paper wasps use chewed wood and saliva to make their nests, while hornets use a mixture of chewed wood and plant fibers.
Location of nests
The location of the nests is another key difference between paper wasps and hornets. As mentioned before, paper wasps build their nests in sheltered areas such as the eaves of buildings, under decks, or in shrubs and trees. Hornets, on the other hand, build their nests in exposed areas such as on branches, twigs, or in open areas.
It is important to note that wasps and hornets may also build their nests in areas that are not as expected. For example, paper wasps may build their nests in exposed areas such as on the side of a building or in the open. Hornets, on the other hand, may build their nests in protected areas such as under the eaves of buildings or in shrubs and trees.
Nest size and shape
The size and shape of the nest is another key difference between paper wasps and hornets. Paper wasp nests are usually smaller and more compact than hornet nests. They are typically shaped like an upside down umbrella with a circular opening at the bottom. Hornet nests, on the other hand, are usually much larger and are shaped like an inverted teardrop with an opening at the bottom.
The size of the nest is also an indicator of the size of the colony. A larger nest usually means a larger colony and vice versa.
Nest material
The material used to make the nests is another key difference between paper wasps and hornets. Paper wasps use chewed wood and saliva to make their nests, while hornets use a mixture of chewed wood and plant fibers. This material is used to build the cells of the nest which are then used to store food and house the wasp larvae.
The material used to make the nest is also an indicator of the type of wasp or hornet. If the nest is made from chewed wood, it is likely a paper wasp. If the nest is made from a mixture of chewed wood and plant fibers, it is likely a hornet.
Prevention and removal of nests
When it comes to preventing and removing wasp and hornet nests, it is important to be aware of the differences between the two. If you spot a paper wasp nest, it is recommended to take steps to remove it as soon as possible. Paper wasp nests can be dangerous and should be removed by a professional.
If you spot a hornet nest, it is usually best to leave it alone. Hornets can be aggressive and can defend their nest if they feel threatened. If you must remove the nest, it is best to do so at night when the hornets are less active. It is also important to wear protective clothing and use insecticides designed to kill hornets.
At Banner Pest Services, we have the expertise and tools to safely and effectively remove the pests from your home or property. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you remove pests from your home!
Conclusion
Paper wasps and hornets may look similar, but there are some key differences between the two. One of those differences is the type of nest they build. Paper wasps build their nests in sheltered areas, while hornets build their nests in exposed areas. In addition, paper wasp nests are usually smaller and more compact than hornet nests. They are typically shaped like an upside down umbrella with a circular opening at the bottom, while hornet nests are usually shaped like an inverted teardrop with an opening at the bottom.
When it comes to prevention and removal of wasp and hornet nests, it is important to be aware of the differences between the two. Paper wasp nests should be removed by a professional, while hornets should not be disturbed unless absolutely necessary.
We hope this blog has helped you understand the differences between paper wasp nests and hornet nests. Remember, if you do spot a wasp or hornet nest, it is best to leave it alone or contact a professional for help.
