Hornets, our experience
Hornets divide opinions. They are big insects, related to wasps, but growing to almost 1.5 inches (3.5cm). (Notice my thumb holding the pint glass)
However, hornets are not deemed to be aggressive, and are important pollinators and pest controllers, so are a gardener’s friend. Hornet’s nests only last one season; in autumn the young queens leave, while the old queen and the males die.
A bit too close for comfort
There was always the occasional hornet to be spotted at Rails Farm, probably attracted by our apple trees – they eat apples as well as the wasps that go for rotting fruit. We find them fascinating, despite their alarming size. This summer we had lots; they had built a nest in our loft, close to a bedroom window – a bit close for comfort. Also, we have beehives in the garden; hornets eat the odd bee or two, making them unpopular with bee keepers.
Not as bad as we first thought
Despite this we decided to wait and monitor, keeping the bedroom window closed. It turned out they were no bother. They were never aggressive, minded their own business, and unlike wasps they never pestered us when we ate outside. The numbers of wasps that did pester us went down over summer; maybe the hornets had something to do with this? Our honey bees seemed unaffected. Hornets keep flying after nightfall, though, and are attracted to light sources, so windows had to be kept shut. When trying to get through window panes they make ticking noises – they are so big they make a noise on impact! Occasionally one got in, but even trapped inside they were never aggressive, only confused. At night we could hear them through our bedroom ceiling.
Fast forward to late autumn and they are gone. We might have been lucky, but we felt privileged to have these magnificent creatures around. Our message is, if you happen to find a hornet’s nest, don’t panic. They look and sound scarier than they are. And if they are not too close to your house, maybe just watch and wait before rushing to call out the pest control team.
Thanks for reading,
Gaby