Knowledgebase

Bald-Faced Hornet Nest Relocation #875672

Asked July 02, 2024, 1:35 PM EDT

I am reaching out because we have a bald-faced hornet nest developing on the eaves above our garage door, and my spouse is concerned that destroying it may inadvertently remove a beneficial species from our environment, or harm other pollinators if poison is sprayed on it, while I am concerned about it being in a highly trafficked area and am aware that they can be aggressive. I was hoping to get some insight as to whether it is possible to relocate, rather than destroy, if that would even be recommended, and if that is a service that the Extension Office can provide?

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

You can review our social wasp page for more information. They are beneficial insects in our landscapes since most are predatory or eat carrion and help pollinate as they forage. 

If it is high enough in the peak of the garage, it should not be a problem to you even in a high traffic area. They will not seek out humans to sting them, only if they feel like their nest is threated. 

Unfortunately there is probably not a service that will relocate it. There is an apiary association that will take a swarm of honey bees or relocate a nest of those though. 

If you are concerned about getting stung you can use an over the counter pesticide to spray at the nest and it should mostly just target the wasps and any larvae in that nest. Just follow label directions and don't use on an overly windy day. 

Emily


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