◄ CONTENTS
CHAPTER 10

Stinging Insect Removal

Operation Hornet's Nest

CH.10PG. 2 / 3

Dangers, Signs & Damage

Dangers, Signs & Damage

Stinging insects send over 500,000 Americans to the ER annually. Multiple stings can be life-threatening — even for non-allergic people.

Extreme close-up of a honey bee's barbed stinger
SPECIMEN

Honey Bee Stinger — Barbed

Specimen reference

Extreme close-up of a wasp's smooth stinger
SPECIMEN

Wasp Stinger — Smooth

Specimen reference

CLASSIFIED // BO-10

Stinging Insect Removal

Warning Signs

  • Repeated wasp traffic to one spot under the eave or attic vent.
  • Visible paper or mud nests.
  • Buzzing in walls, vents, or crawlspaces.
  • Aggressive insects defending an unseen nest.

Health Risks

  • Anaphylaxis from a single sting in allergic individuals.
  • Toxic envenomation from multiple stings.
  • Africanized bee swarms can kill pets and pose serious human risk.

DIY Hazards

  • Knocking down a nest provokes the entire colony.
  • OTC sprays often miss the queen and the inside of the nest.
  • Wall void colonies can chew through drywall when treated incorrectly.