Everything You Need To Know About Bald Faced Hornet Stings

If you’ve ever been stung by a bald faced hornet, you know that it can be a painful and unpleasant experience. But what do you really know about these creatures? In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about bald faced hornet stings, including identification, treatment, prevention, and natural remedies.

What is a Bald Faced Hornet?

A bald faced hornet is a type of wasp that belongs to the genus Vespula. These creatures are typically black and white in color, with a black head and thorax, and white stripes on their abdomen. They are larger than most other wasps and can grow up to three-quarters of an inch in length.

Unlike other wasps, bald faced hornets are extremely aggressive and will aggressively defend their nests. This makes them especially dangerous to humans, as they can sting multiple times in rapid succession.

Identifying a Bald Faced Hornet

Bald faced hornets can be identified by their black and white coloring and their large size. They are typically found in wooded areas and near homes, as they build their nests in tree trunks and other sheltered areas.

Their nests are usually made of paper and can be up to two feet in diameter. They are usually found high up in trees, but may also be found in other sheltered areas, such as on the side of a house or in an attic.

What You Need to Know About Bald Faced Hornet Stings

Bald faced hornet stings can be painful and can cause swelling and redness on the skin. Some people may also experience nausea, headache, and difficulty breathing after being stung.

The venom of a bald faced hornet contains several toxins, including acetylcholine, histamine, and serotonin. These toxins can cause a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

It is important to note that bald faced hornets are capable of stinging multiple times in rapid succession. If you are stung by a bald faced hornet, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Treatment for a Bald Faced Hornet Sting

If you are stung by a bald faced hornet, the first thing you should do is remove the stinger. You can do this by scraping it off with a credit card or a blunt object.

Once the stinger is removed, the area should be washed with soap and water to remove any remaining venom. An ice pack should then be applied to the area to reduce the swelling and pain.

If the symptoms persist, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The doctor may prescribe an antihistamine or a topical steroid to reduce the inflammation. In some cases, an epinephrine injection may be necessary to treat a severe allergic reaction.

Prevention of Bald Faced Hornet Stings

The best way to prevent bald faced hornet stings is to avoid areas where they are known to live. If you come across a nest, it is important to stay away and call a professional to have it removed.

It is also important to wear protective clothing, such as long pants and long sleeves, when outdoors. Wearing light-colored clothing is also recommended, as bald faced hornets are less likely to attack people wearing light-colored clothing.

Natural Remedies for Bald Faced Hornet Stings

If you are stung by a bald faced hornet, there are a few natural remedies that can help reduce the pain and swelling. Applying a paste made of baking soda and water can help relieve the pain, as can applying a cold compress or an onion slice.

If you have a severe reaction to a bald faced hornet sting, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. However, some people have reported relief from symptoms by taking over-the-counter antihistamines or natural supplements, such as quercetin or stinging nettle.

Do’s and Don’ts for Dealing with Bald Faced Hornets

Do’s:

• Wear protective clothing when outdoors.
• Stay away from areas where bald faced hornets are known to live.
• If you come across a nest, call a professional for removal.
• Apply a paste made of baking soda and water to reduce pain and swelling.
• Take over-the-counter antihistamines or natural supplements for relief from symptoms.

Don’ts:

• Don’t attempt to remove a nest yourself.
• Don’t use any type of pesticide or insecticide near a nest.
• Don’t swat at a bald faced hornet or try to shoo it away.
• Don’t try to cover or block a nest.

Professional Control for Bald Faced Hornets

If you come across a nest of bald faced hornets, it is important to call a professional for removal. Professional pest control companies are trained to safely remove nests and can provide advice on how to prevent bald faced hornet stings in the future.

Conclusion

Bald faced hornet stings can be painful and dangerous, so it is important to know what to do if you are stung. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you can help prevent bald faced hornet stings and ensure that you stay safe. Remember, if you come across a nest, don’t be afraid to call a professional for removal.