Wasps, hornets and bees are all common types of stinging insects that can be found on your property at any given time. To help you better understand these stinging insects, some of the more popular questions about these pests are answered below.
Do all stinging bees, wasps, and hornets live in large colonies?
There are many species of stinging insects that live in large colonies and have hundreds or even thousands of members living in them. Species like honey bees, bumble bees, baldfaced hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets are all examples. But there are species that are considered to be solitary and do not live in large colonies; examples of more solitary species include carpenter bees and cicada killer wasps.
Where do bees, wasps, and hornet live?
Where they live will vary from species to species. But in general:
- Hornets- Hornets will build their nest within or on the tops of trees, attic rafters, under porches or within other covered areas.
- Bees- Bees tend to nest within trees or hollow logs, in the ground, in chimneys, wall voids, or within structural wood (carpenter bees).
- Wasps- Wasps also like wall voids and attics, and can be found underneath roof eaves. Wasp nests can be in dense trees, or bushes, or in the ground underneath of rocks, logs and concrete slabs.
Are all bees, wasps, and hornets considered dangerous?
Any bee, wasp or hornet that has a stinger has the potential to be dangerous. When one of these insects stings you, they will inject you with their venom, some can only sting once, while other may be able to repeatedly sting you. It is the reaction a person has from a sting that can greatly vary. Some people may just experience an itchy, painful red welt. Applying a cold compress to the area that was stung can help to reduce both pain and swelling. Other people may have a much more serious allergic reaction to the venom that will require immediate medical attention.
It is important to remember though that most species will not sting or attack unless they feel threatened or their nest is being threatened. This is why it is important to be aware of any nests on your property, so you can avoid it and have it removed by a professional.
What are the benefits of stinging insects?
Stinging insects are actually very beneficial to the environment. Bees are responsible for pollinating crops all over the world. Honey bees make honey that we are then able to harvest for our own use. And predatory wasp and hornet species help by feeding on other pest insects found on your property and help to keep those pests numbers from getting too high.
What do I do if there is a stinging insect nest on my property?
If you discover that there is bee, wasp, or hornet nest on your property the first thing that you should do is leave it and its inhabitants alone. If the nest is located near your home you should contact a pest control company to come and evaluate the situation and safely remove the nest from our property.
You should never try to remove a stinging insect nest from your property on your own, the chance of getting stung and having a serious reaction is too high. Let the professionals that have the proper equipment and experience do this job for you.