101 Exterminators
Service Areas
Pests
Articles
Guides
Paper wasp nest on home eave — professional wasp and bee removal by 101 Exterminators

Nest Removal Without the Risk

Yellow Jackets · Paper Wasps · Hornets · Honey Bee Relocation

Stinging insect nests near entry points, play areas, or in structural voids are a safety risk — especially for anyone with venom allergies. 101 Exterminators' wasp and bee removal service uses protective equipment and species-appropriate techniques to eliminate or relocate nests safely. For honey bees, we prioritize live relocation to local beekeepers rather than extermination, supporting regional pollinator populations.

★★★★★5.0·400+ Google reviews

Why This Matters Here

Yellow jacket pressure in Central California peaks in late summer (August–October) as colonies reach maximum population and foragers range aggressively in search of protein and sugar. Paper wasps build open-comb nests under eaves, in pergolas, and in attic vents throughout all four counties. Honey bee swarms are common in spring, particularly in Monterey County's orchard-adjacent areas — swarms often settle temporarily in hedges, trees, or structures before establishing a permanent hive.

We treat yellow jacket nests (including in-ground and wall-void nests), paper wasp nests under eaves and overhangs, European and bald-faced hornet nests, and mud dauber tubes. For honey bee hives established in walls or structures, we provide complete treatment and nest removal including comb excavation to prevent future odor and secondary pest attraction. For accessible swarms, we can arrange transfer to a local beekeeper.

Signs You Need This Service

  • Visible nest under eaves, in shrubs, attached to window frames, in tree cavities, or in attic vents
  • Repeated wasp activity near a specific location on the structure — nest is likely nearby
  • Wasp or bee activity around a specific gap, crack, or vent opening — indicates cavity nest inside
  • In-ground yellow jacket activity — small hole in soil or mulch bed with wasps entering and exiting
  • Honey bee swarm visible on a tree, shrub, or structure — usually a temporary cluster
  • Buzzing sounds within walls, soffits, or chimney area — established honey bee hive

Our Process

Every service follows a structured protocol designed to deliver effective, lasting results — not a temporary fix.

01
Step 01

Species & Nest Location

We identify the species and locate all nesting sites, including in-wall or structural voids that require special access. Species determines the treatment approach.

02
Step 02

Treatment in Protective Equipment

Our technicians treat nests in full protective equipment — veil, suit, and gloves. Evening treatment is preferred for ground nests when foragers have returned to the nest.

03
Step 03

Nest Removal

After treatment, accessible nests are physically removed. For wall-void nests, we advise on comb removal to prevent secondary pest attraction from wax, honey, and larval material.

04
Step 04

Entry Point Sealing

We seal entry points used by cavity-nesting species to prevent re-colonization by a new colony in the same location.

Why Choose 101 Exterminators

20+ years of service across four Central California counties. CA licensed, insured, and backed by a genuine satisfaction guarantee.

Bee Relocation Option

When possible, we work with local beekeepers to relocate honey bee swarms and accessible hives rather than exterminating them. Good for bees, good for local agriculture.

Wall-Void Nest Removal

Nests inside walls require more than just treatment — the comb must be removed to prevent honey seepage, secondary pests, and odor. We handle the complete remediation.

Same-Day Service for Emergencies

A wasp nest near an entry door, child's play area, or pet run is a safety emergency. We prioritize same-day or next-day service for these situations.

Evening Ground Nest Treatment

Yellow jacket ground nests are treated at dusk when the full colony has returned, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing any risk of disrupted forager activity.

20+

Years in Business

A+

BBB Rating

4

Counties Served

5★

Google Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have yellow jackets vs. paper wasps?

Yellow jackets are stocky, bright yellow and black, and build papery nests in ground cavities, wall voids, or hollow trees. They are highly aggressive when the nest is disturbed. Paper wasps are slender with long legs and build open, umbrella-shaped comb nests (no papery cover) under eaves. Paper wasps are less aggressive and will only sting if directly handled or if the nest is disturbed.

Should I remove a wasp nest myself?

We strongly recommend against it. Yellow jacket colonies in late summer can contain 4,000–5,000 individuals and will mount a coordinated defensive sting response if disturbed. For people with known or unknown venom allergies, a single encounter can be life-threatening. Ground nests are especially hazardous because the full colony can emerge instantly.

When should I call for wasp removal vs. waiting until winter?

Most wasp colonies die off naturally in winter — only new queens survive to start new colonies in spring. If the nest is in a low-traffic area and not a safety concern, waiting until winter is a reasonable approach. If the nest is near entry doors, children's play areas, or poses a sting risk to family or pets, treatment should happen promptly regardless of season.

Serving 4 Central California Counties

Monterey · San Benito · Santa Cruz · Santa Clara

Free Wasp & Bee Removal Inspection

No obligation. Written estimate before any work begins. CA licensed and insured. Serving Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Santa Clara counties.

5.0 · Google Reviews