Will hornets return if I destroy a nest?

Hornets may return if you destroy a nest, depending on timing, method, and whether queen survives, as destruction alone does not always eliminate colony or prevent rebuilding, especially if queen survives or if nest is destroyed early in season. If you destroy nest but queen and many workers survive, they may attempt to rebuild nest nearby in same location or close by, as they have invested energy and have brood to care for, and they are attracted to previous location due to pheromones and favorable conditions. If you destroy nest early in spring when queen is establishing, queen may rebuild elsewhere. If nest is destroyed late in summer when colony is large, surviving hornets may disperse and try to build new nest or join other colonies. If you completely remove nest and clean area to remove pheromones, and seal entry points, chance of hornets returning to same spot is reduced, but they may still build nearby if habitat favorable. Professional pest control that uses insecticidal dust that kills queen and workers is more effective than just knocking down nest, as killing queen prevents rebuilding. After destruction, hornets may return for few days searching for nest, especially if brood remains. To prevent return, remove nest at night when hornets less active, dispose of nest in sealed bag away from house, clean area with soap and water to remove pheromones, seal cracks, and keep food and trash sealed to reduce attractants, and consider preventive measures like hanging fake nests which may deter some species.