When something buzzes past your ear, it’s hard to tell if it’s a bee or a wasp. Even if you get a good look, you may not be able to tell the difference. Many bee and wasp species are amazingly similar in size and color.
When Monmouth County home or business owners call with complaints about bees or wasps, it usually takes an inspection by one of our knowledgeable bee and wasp removal experts to determine which stinging insect is causing the problem. However, if you can safely get a good look at the pest, try using these clues to determine whether it’s a bee or wasp:
- Bees have a fuzzy appearance. Their bodies are covered with short, dense hairs. Wasps have smooth, hairless bodies which gives them a sleeker appearance.
- Bees have thick waists. Wasps have the same pinched-waist as their ancient ant cousins.
- Bees feed on plant nectar and gather pollen so are usually seen in gardens. Wasps are predators that feed on other insects, carrion and sweets. Wasps, particularly yellow jackets, are often seen buzzing around trash cans in parks.
- Many, but not all, bees have barbed stingers and can sting only once. After hooking its stinger into its victim, the bee’s body is torn apart when he flies away and the insect dies. All wasps, on the other hand, have straight stingers which allows them to sting multiple times. This ability is what makes wasps, especially aggressive species like yellow jackets and hornets, such a dangerous threat to humans.
Removing a bee or wasp nest is a job for professionals. Call Allison Pest Control for fast, safe, effective bee and wasp removal.