Hornet nest 20 feet up in a pine tree - Ask Extension
We spotted a hornets nest in our huge green spruce tree about 20 feet up on a branch. The tree is very tall, it’s 32 years old and we bought it matu...
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Hornet nest 20 feet up in a pine tree #928620
Asked April 16, 2026, 3:47 PM EDT
We spotted a hornets nest in our huge green spruce tree about 20 feet up on a branch. The tree is very tall, it’s 32 years old and we bought it mature. What can we do or who can we hire to remove it or is it even a problem? I do not have an image of the nest but I will show you the image of the tree.
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
This time of year that is a nest from last year. All the insects are dead, which is normal, they do not overwinter. Leaving it is an advantage
for wildlife, who can use the dead insects for food.
If more hornets build a new nest this year and it is up high, and you are not being bothered by hornets near you as you use your yard for recreation, etc. you can leave the nest.
bulletins for you—
Identification- https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/bee-wasp-or-hornet-nest-which-one-is-it
information on lifecycle, benefits to wildlife-
https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-02-10-baldfaced-hornet-dangerous-bug-or-beneficial-insect
This time of year that is a nest from last year. All the insects are dead, which is normal, they do not overwinter. Leaving it is an advantage
for wildlife, who can use the dead insects for food.
If more hornets build a new nest this year and it is up high, and you are not being bothered by hornets near you as you use your yard for recreation, etc. you can leave the nest.
bulletins for you—
Identification- https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/bee-wasp-or-hornet-nest-which-one-is-it
information on lifecycle, benefits to wildlife-
https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-02-10-baldfaced-hornet-dangerous-bug-or-beneficial-insect
