What do hornets eat?
Adult hornets primarily feed on sugar sources like nectar, tree sap and rotting fruit. However, they also hunt other insects, including caterpillars and flies, to provide protein to their developing larvae.
Do hornets die off in the winter?
Yes, most hornets die when cold weather arrives. Only the new queens survive the winter by hibernating in protected areas, emerging in the spring to start new colonies. Because of our mild Charleston winters, some activity can linger longer than
Why are hornets so aggressive?
Hornets are highly defensive by nature. They perceive movement near their nest as a direct threat to the queen and the colony. Unlike some other stinging insects, they can sting repeatedly and will swarm quickly if their nest is disturbed.
What attracts hornets to my yard?
Hornets are primarily drawn to food sources such as sugary liquids, overripe fruit and other insects. They also look for protected, elevated spaces like eaves, attics or dense shrubs that provide a safe environment for building their nests.
When is hornet season most active in Charleston?
Hornet activity in the Lowcountry peaks during the warm summer months, typically from June through September. This is when colonies are at their largest and most active as they forage for food and expand their nests.
Is professional pest control more effective than DIY methods?
Retail traps often only kill a few individuals without addressing the larger nest. Barrier Pest Services understands the biology of local species like roof rats and Norway rats. We provide a comprehensive solution that includes professional-grade products and permanent exclusion
Will I need follow-up visits after the initial treatment?
Yes. We typically schedule follow-up visits to monitor activity, refresh bait and ensure that your exclusion seals remain intact. Regular maintenance is the most effective way to prevent a new colony from moving into the space vacated by the previous
Do you treat mice and rats outside Charleston?
We provide expert rodent extermination and removal across the entire Lowcountry. Our team frequently services homes in areas such as Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Goose Creek. We understand the local nesting patterns unique to our coastal environment.
How can I prevent rats and mice from entering my home?
The best prevention is keeping your property clean and sealed. Store food in airtight containers, keep firewood away from your foundation and ensure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Most importantly, you should have us seal any small cracks or
How do you keep bait away from pets and children?
We use tamper-resistant bait stations that lock the product inside. Only a rodent can reach it. Our technicians place stations along walls, in crawlspaces and in other spots where mice and rats travel but people and pets do not. If