Unfortunately there are many different species of stinging pests that New Jersey residents must be wary of once the winter months fade away. Most of the bees, wasps, and hornets that will be encountered in New Jersey are typically docile creatures that are happy to go about their daily tasks for the good of the colony. Some wasps and hornets however are particularly aggressive, especially as the summer months wane on and food sources are not as plentiful.
One hornet that is especially annoying is the European Hornet, otherwise known as the Giant hornet. You may notice these Giant hornets knocking on your windows at night as they are attracted to the lights that illuminate homes. They are quite large, measuring approximately 1.5 inches or larger in size. The European hornet builds its nest in wall voids, attics, sheds, barns, and tree hollows.
These hornets are extremely aggressive towards their prey (insects), animals and humans alike. Unlike the docile and protected honeybee, which has a barbed stinger, the European hornet has a smooth stinger. When the European hornet stings its victim, it is able to sting repeatedly without losing its painful stinger. Each time that the victim is stabbed, venom is released that will cause pain or even death to the one on the receiving end.
It is estimated that the Giant hornet was first introduced to New York around 1840. Since then, it has spread to 31 states, encompassing the entire eastern seaboard. These pests can cause serious allergic reactions to those who suffer from their stings. They are also known to damage trees and shrubs as they strip the bark to expose the sap which they will feed upon.
The National Pest Management Association recommends that you hire a qualified exterminator for safe removal of these pests. Allison Pest Control offers safe Monmouth County, NJ extermination services of the European hornet as well as all other types of pests.
