No matter how much I insist that I love being an exterminator and pest control expert, I’m not confident that many people would want to trade places to experience a day in the life of Dan “The Bug Man” Latini of Dan Can Home Services! On the day I filmed this video, I’m on the job, all suited up to handle a particularly challenging task: removing a bald-faced hornet nest. Let me take you through the process, step by step.
The Hornet Nest: A Closer Look
When I arrived at the site, I was greeted by a large, very active bald-faced hornet nest. Despite their name, these hornets are actually a type of wasp closely related to yellow jackets. This particular nest had grown to such an impressive size that it had two entry points instead of the typical one. Inside, there were likely several hundred hornets buzzing about, already hard at work even though it was only 7:00 AM.
Bald-faced hornets are, in my opinion, some of the most beautiful insects around, but they’re also incredibly aggressive. So, I got ready to start treatment while keeping a safe distance.
The Treatment Process: Freezing and Eliminating
For this job, I used a product called PT Wasp Freeze 2. This powerful aerosol literally freezes the wasps in place, making it easier to control the situation. With the hornets bottlenecked at their entry points, I quickly moved to apply the treatment to both openings. As expected, the hornets began to get agitated, so I followed up with another product called CB-80, which is known for its quick-killing action.
After a few seconds, I could hear the hornets inside the nest reacting. The next step was to flood the nest with the CB-80 aerosol to ensure all activity inside was neutralized.
Why DIY Isn’t Recommended
Let me pause here to stress something important: attempting to tackle a nest like this on your own with a can of Raid isn’t just ineffective—it’s dangerous. Bald-faced hornets are highly aggressive, and without the proper protection and products, you’re likely to end up with an angry swarm on your hands. This is a job best left to professionals.
For this particular nest, I opted to kill off the activity immediately because the nest was near a family’s home, where children play. Usually, I might use a dust application to slowly eliminate the hornets over a few days, but in this case, swift action was necessary.
Inside the Nest: A Glimpse of Nature
Once most of the hornets were dead, I began dismantling the nest. Bald-faced hornets build their nests using wood shavings, which they mix with their saliva to create a protective envelope around their hive. As I pulled apart the nest, I found larvae, eggs, and plenty of dead hornets.
The queen, who had been ruling this hive, was among those that didn’t survive. Without their queen, the remaining hornets won’t know what to do and will die off in a few days.
It’s fascinating to see the intricacies of a hornet’s nest up close. While these insects are dangerous when they nest near human activity, they play a vital role in nature, helping to control other insect populations and even contributing to pollination.
Wrapping Up the Job
After finishing the treatment and removing the bulk of the nest, I advised the homeowner that while I could take down most of the nest, some residue would remain. A good power washing would take care of the rest.
Even though I’ve removed the nest, some hornets that were out foraging will return, only to find their home and queen gone. Without direction, these hornets are harmless, but it’s a reminder of why it’s important to deal with nests promptly and professionally.
Why Dan Can Home Services?
At Dan Can Home Services, I’m not just about pest control—I’m about providing peace of mind. I want to protect your family as I would my own, ensuring that your home remains a safe and comfortable place to live.
If you’re dealing with a pest problem, don’t think, “Who Can?”—Dan Can! Whether it’s hornets, wasps, or any other pests, I’m here to help. Reach out today, and let’s keep your home safe together.
Until next time, stay safe and pest-free!