Blog · Stinging Insects
The homeowners kept getting stung every time they brushed against one of the shrubs in their yard, and they couldn't see why. The reason was a European hornet nest built deep inside the shrub, right at waist height, where nobody could see it until they were already too close.
What Is a European Hornet?
The European hornet is the largest stinging wasp you're likely to see in northern Illinois, often more than an inch long, with a brown-and-yellow body. These hornets typically nest in protected, hidden spots such as hollow trees, wall voids and dense shrubs.
Why a Shrub Nest Is So Dangerous
A nest high in a tree is easy to spot and avoid. A nest tucked inside a shrub at waist height is the opposite: it's hidden by leaves, and it sits right where you trim, mow, weed or walk past. Bumping or shaking the shrub disturbs the nest, and the hornets defend it. That's exactly what was happening to these homeowners.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Getting stung, or seeing hornets fly out, whenever you touch the same bush
- Large wasps going in and out of one spot in a hedge or shrub
What To Do
Don't trim, spray or poke the shrub yourself. Keep kids and pets away from that area and call a licensed professional. We provide treatment of active wasp and hornet nests, and your technician will explain in person how long the treated nest should remain.
Your first insect pest treatment includes an initial pest inspection at no additional charge. Hornet nests off the structure, like this one in a shrub, are charged separately from maintenance plans.
Hornet nest treatment starts at $175.00 to $250.00, depending on how large the nest is and where it's located.
Safety warning: If you are stung and are allergic, or have trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness, call 911 or seek medical attention right away.
Hornet & Wasp Nest Treatment Near You
Based in Cary, Illinois, we treat European hornet, wasp and yellow jacket nests for homeowners in Cary, Barrington, Barrington Hills, Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Fox River Grove, Lake Zurich, Huntley and nearby communities across McHenry, Lake, Kane and Cook counties.