What should I do if I find a bee or wasp nest on my house?

Avoid disturbing the nest. Do not attempt to spray it or knock it down. Quickly and calmly leave the area and contact a licensed pest control professional for an assessment.

Are bees and wasps active year-round in Clifton?

No. While you might see a solitary queen in early spring, peak activity is from late spring through fall. Colonies die off in winter, with only the new queens surviving in hibernation.

What's the difference between bee removal and wasp removal?

Bee removal, especially for honey bees, often focuses on humane live relocation to preserve the beneficial colony. Wasp and hornet removal typically involves eradication of the nest, as these insects are generally not relocated due to their aggressive nature.

How quickly can a professional remove a nest?

Many local companies offer prompt service for urgent situations. The actual removal process for a single nest can often be completed in under an hour, but timing depends on the company's schedule and the nest's complexity.

Can I just leave a nest alone if it's not bothering anyone?

It is not recommended. Nests grow quickly, and insects can become defensive if the nest is inadvertently disturbed later. A small, early-season nest is much easier and less expensive to manage than a large, established colony.

Do pest control companies guarantee their bee and wasp removal work?

Many reputable companies offer a service guarantee or a free follow-up visit if the problem recurs within a certain period. Always ask about service warranties when obtaining a quote.

What time of year is best for removal?

The best time is as soon as you notice the nest, regardless of season. Early intervention in spring or early summer is ideal, as nests are smaller and less populated, making the process simpler and often less costly.

Pest Control in Clifton, NJ,

Discovering a buzzing nest on your property in Clifton can be unsettling and potentially dangerous. Professional bee and wasp removal is a critical service that addresses these stinging insect infestations safely and effectively. This guide explains why expert intervention matters, details what to expect from the process, and helps you understand how to find qualified local specialists to handle your specific situation.

Universal Pest Control

118 Locust St, Roselle, NJ 07203

Universal Pest Control is a family owned and operated pest control company serving Newark, NJ, and the surrounding Union County area. They offer a wide range of pest management services including cockroach, ant, termite, bee and wasp removal, as well as wildlife control. Their licensed and trained technicians use up-to-date methods to address pest infestations safely and effectively. With years of experience, Universal Pest Control provides free consultations and estimates to help customers find tailored solutions for their pest issues.

5.0

393 Reviews

BHB Pest Elimination, LLC

199 Main Ave, Wallington, NJ 07057

BHB Pest Elimination, LLC is a family-owned pest control company serving New York, NY. They provide comprehensive pest management for residential and commercial properties, addressing common urban pests such as rodents, cockroaches, bedbugs, ants, termites, and bees. Their services include thorough inspections, customized treatment plans using child- and pet-safe eco-friendly products, and ongoing protection to prevent future infestations. With over 50 years of experience since 1969, BHB Pest Elimination focuses on integrated pest management strategies tailored to the unique challenges of New York City. They also offer same-day and emergency services to promptly handle urgent pest issues.

5.0

367 Reviews

Recon Pest Control Inc

79 Escanaba Ave, Staten Island, NY 10308

Recon Pest Control Inc is a family-owned pest control company based in Staten Island, serving New York, NY, and nearby New Jersey. They offer a wide range of pest management services including bed bug extermination, termite control, rodent removal, mosquito reduction, bee and wasp removal, and wildlife relocation. The company also provides specialized solutions like the SolaTrim Pest Abatement Barrier to protect solar panels from pigeons and rodents. Recon Pest Control partners with Dad and Daughters Home Inspection, LLC to offer comprehensive home inspections and related services.

5.0

359 Reviews

GoSafe Pest Control LLC

264-07 Langston Ave unit B, Glen Oaks, NY 11004

GoSafe Pest Control LLC is a locally owned pest control company serving New York, NY. They provide a range of pest management services including bed bug treatment, cockroach and ant control, rodent control, termite inspections, mosquito control, bee and wasp removal, bird and pigeon control, and wildlife removal. The company offers eco-friendly solutions tailored to client schedules, with options for weekly to seasonal visits.

5.0

213 Reviews

Uma Pest Control

200 W Milton Ave, Rahway, NJ 07065

Uma Pest Control offers a range of pest management services in New York, NY, including bed bug treatment, termite inspections, mosquito control, rodent removal, and bird control. They provide commercial, residential, and industrial pest control using green botanical products when preferred. Uma Pest Control is known for its one-day bed bug treatment that combines freeze, heat, and steam methods in a single visit, avoiding multiple follow-ups common with other providers. Their services also cover insect repellents, exclusion work, and wildlife removal for animals like bats and raccoons. The company operates from Rahway, NJ, and has been maintaining pest control services for several years.

5.0

153 Reviews

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Understanding the Need for Professional Extermination

Attempting to remove a bee or wasp nest on your own is strongly discouraged. Disturbing a colony can provoke a defensive swarm, leading to multiple painful stings and, for those with allergies, a life-threatening situation¹ ². Professionals are trained to identify the specific species-whether it's honey bees, paper wasps, yellow jackets, or hornets-which dictates the safest removal strategy³. They arrive equipped with the proper protective gear and employ targeted methods like aerosol treatments, dusting, or specialized vacuuming to eliminate or relocate the nest¹ ². Hiring a licensed and insured pest control expert in Clifton ensures the job is done correctly, protecting your family and your property.

Common Nesting Sites Around Your Home

Wasps and bees are opportunistic when choosing a nesting site, seeking sheltered spots safe from weather and disturbance⁴. Knowing where to look can help you identify a problem early.

Above-Ground Locations: These are often the most visible nests. Look for papery structures under roof eaves, porch ceilings, deck railings, or within trees and dense shrubs⁴ ².

Enclosed Spaces: Insects frequently enter through small openings to build nests in protected voids. Attics, sheds, garages, and the spaces behind siding or within wall cavities are prime real estate⁵ ⁴.

Ground Nests: Particularly common with yellow jackets, ground nests are built in abandoned rodent burrows, under landscaping timbers, or in cavities within rock walls⁵ ⁴. These can be especially hazardous as they are easily stumbled upon.

The Seasonal Cycle of Stinging Insects in New Jersey

Activity levels for bees and wasps in Clifton follow a predictable annual pattern, which influences when you're most likely to encounter them and when removal services are in highest demand⁶.

Spring (April-May): Fertilized queens emerge from winter hibernation and begin scouting for new nesting sites. They start building their nests and laying eggs, with worker populations beginning to grow⁵ ⁷ ⁸.

Summer (June-August): Colonies expand rapidly, reaching their peak population by late summer. Wasps are actively foraging for protein (other insects) and sweets, making them a frequent nuisance at barbecues and outdoor events⁵ ⁹.

Fall (September-October): This is a critical period. Colony activity remains high, but as natural food sources decline, insects can become more aggressive⁹. The colony prepares for winter, producing new queens and drones.

Winter (November-March): With freezing temperatures, activity ceases. The worker bees and wasps die off. Only the newly mated queens survive, finding sheltered spots to overwinter and begin the cycle anew the following spring⁵ ¹⁰.

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Cost Factors for Bee and Wasp Extermination

The cost for stinging insect removal in Clifton varies widely, typically ranging from $100 to $1,300, with the final price depending on several key factors¹¹ ¹² ¹³. Most infestations can be resolved with a single professional visit¹ ¹¹.

Nest Location and Accessibility: A small, hanging paper wasp nest on a gutter is far less expensive to treat than a large yellow jacket nest deep within a wall cavity or underground. Difficult access often requires more time and specialized equipment.
Insect Species: The removal method differs. Aggressive species like bald-faced hornets or yellow jackets require more caution⁵. Humane live bee removal and relocation for honey bees is a specialized service that can also affect cost¹³.
Nest Size: A newly established nest in spring is smaller and less expensive to handle than a massive, mature colony in late summer.
Required Repairs: If a nest is inside a structure, removal may necessitate opening a section of wall, siding, or roofing. Post-removal repair work can add $300 to $1,000 or more to the total project cost¹¹.

Local Pest Control Services in Clifton

Several reputable companies serve the Clifton area for stinging insect control. It's advisable to get multiple estimates and confirm that technicians are licensed and insured.

ALCO Animal & Pest Control: Offers prompt and safe wasp removal services for local residents¹⁴.
Horizon Pest Control: Handles bee and wasp infestations of various sizes and complexities¹⁵.
Eastern Pest Services: Specializes in safe and effective bee, wasp, and hornet extermination and nest removal in North Jersey¹².
Simply The Best Pest Control & Silver Bullet Pest Control: Both are highly-rated local options for addressing pest problems¹⁶ ¹⁷.

When contacting a provider, be prepared to describe the nest's location, size, and the insect's appearance if possible. A reputable company will offer a clear inspection and quote before starting any work.

Preventing Future Infestations

After successful removal, take steps to make your property less inviting. In early spring, regularly inspect eaves, sheds, and deck areas for early nest construction. Seal cracks and crevices in your home's exterior, especially around utility lines, vents, and siding. Ensure garbage cans and recycling bins have tight-fitting lids and are placed away from entertainment areas. Keep sweet drinks and food covered during outdoor gatherings, and consider planting insect-repelling flora like mint, eucalyptus, or citronella around patios.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

How Much Does Wasp Nest Removal Cost in 2026? - https://lawnlove.com/blog/wasp-nest-removal-cost/ ↩ ↩² ↩³
5 Common Places You Find Wasp Nests - Dustin Pest Control - https://dustinpestcontrol.com/5-common-places-you-find-wasp-nests/ ↩ ↩² ↩³
How much does Wasp extermination cost? - Yelp - https://www.yelp.com/costs/wasp_extermination ↩
7 Signs of a Wasp Nest on Your Property | 2025 Guide - https://greenpestmanagementct.com/signs-of-a-wasp-nest/ ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴
Bald faced hornet - NJ.gov - https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/pdf/beeswaspshornetsbrocure.pdf ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵ ↩⁶
Commercial & Residential Pest, Rodent & Insect Exterminator & Control Services, Termite Treatment Morris County NJ - https://humphreyspest.com/pest-control-services-in-morris-county-nj/ ↩
Are Wasps Active in Spring in Mount Laurel, NJ? Why Am I Seeing ... - https://www.rossenvironmentalsolutions.com/wasps-active-spring-mount-laurel-nj-seeing-stinging-insects-april-may/ ↩
Fulfill Honey Bees: In Full Swing This Spring - https://fulfillnj.org/honey-bees-spring/ ↩
Stinging Insects in the Fall: Why They're So Active and Dangerous ... - https://www.actionpestcontrol.com/2025/08/28/stinging-insects-in-the-fall-why-theyre-so-active-and-dangerous-for-ocean-monmouth-county-nj-residents/ ↩ ↩²
NJDEP New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection - NJ.gov - https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/forest/bees.html ↩
How Much Does a Wasp Exterminator Cost? (2025) - This Old House - https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pest-control/wasp-exterminator-cost ↩ ↩² ↩³
Bee, Wasp, & Hornet Exterminators in North Jersey | Nest Removal - https://easternpest.com/bees-wasps-exterminators/ ↩ ↩²
Types of Eco-Friendly Bee Removal - https://envirosafepestcontrol.com.au/types-of-eco-friendly-bee-removal/ ↩ ↩²
Wasp Removal in Clifton, NJ - ALCO Animal & Pest Control - https://njpest.com/pest_removal_nj-town.asp?town=Clifton&pest_id=21 ↩
Wasp & Bee Removal in New Jersey - Horizon Pest Control - https://horizonpestcontrol.com/bees/ ↩
Simply The Best Pest Control - https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11rj5x9dk9 ↩
Silver Bullet Pest Control - https://www.google.com/viewer/place?mid=/g/11g6pw8f0m ↩

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