Wasp or hornet? - Ask Extension
What kind of nest is this? I’d rather not use pesticides but it’s very close to my front door. I have seen activity flying inside and out but cann...
Knowledgebase
Wasp or hornet? #872468
Asked June 10, 2024, 4:37 PM EDT
What kind of nest is this? I’d rather not use pesticides but it’s very close to my front door. I have seen activity flying inside and out but cannot identify what kind of insect. It is approximately 3 inches by 2.5 inches.
The second photo looks more like a mud home, directly above my front door.
Grand Traverse County Michigan
Expert Response
The football shaped one is the start of a bald faced hornets nest. You want that destroyed quickly to avoid 100s of wasps flying in and out later in the season. A strong jet of water on a cool night or an aerosol spray will work. However, the wasps inside may be aggressive.
The 2nd slimmer nest is a mud dauber nest. Only 1 wasp lives in each nest entrance. These are solitary, pose minimal risk, and could be left alone. If you have a low tolerance for wasps, they can be removed in the same way as the other nest.
The 2nd slimmer nest is a mud dauber nest. Only 1 wasp lives in each nest entrance. These are solitary, pose minimal risk, and could be left alone. If you have a low tolerance for wasps, they can be removed in the same way as the other nest.
