Pest Library
Stinging Insects
Bees and wasps are both members of the order Hymenoptera, but they're different species — bees have plump, often hairy bodies and live in much larger colonies, while wasps have smooth, shiny bodies with a defined waist. Bees build nests from wax produced by specialized glands; wasps build paper-like nests from saliva, bark, and other plant material. When either builds a nest in a high-traffic area of your yard or on your home, they become a real risk — bee and wasp stings can cause redness, swelling, hives, itching, breathing difficulty, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
About Stinging Insects
Bees and wasps are both members of the order Hymenoptera, but they're different species — bees have plump, often hairy bodies and live in much larger colonies, while wasps have smooth, shiny bodies with a defined waist. Bees build nests from wax produced by specialized glands; wasps build paper-like nests from saliva, bark, and other plant material. When either builds a nest in a high-traffic area of your yard or on your home, they become a real risk — bee and wasp stings can cause redness, swelling, hives, itching, breathing difficulty, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
Signs of Stinging Insects Infestation
- Visible nests under eaves, in attics, sheds, or trees
- Increased insect activity around the same entry point on your home's exterior
- Papery or mud-like nest material on siding, fascia, or in wall voids
- Insects repeatedly flying in and out of a gap or vent
Our Treatment Approach
We identify the species and nest location before treating, since the right approach varies — some nests can be treated directly, while others (like those inside wall voids) require more careful handling. If you see large numbers of bees or wasps in your yard, or discover a nest on your property, it's best to let our professionals remove it safely rather than disturb it yourself.
Ready to get rid of stinging insects for good? See our stinging insect control page for full details.
Prevention Tips
- Limit the number of flowers planted close to your home
- Keep garden areas a distance away from the exterior of your house
- Keep lids on trash cans, maintain gardens, and clear food from outdoor eating areas — wasps forage for many of the same foods we do
- Cut back shrubs, bushes, and tree limbs away from your home's exterior
- Remove standing water sources by keeping gutters clear, repairing leaking fixtures, and storing water-collecting containers upside down
Stinging Insects FAQs
How can I tell bees from wasps?
Bees have plump, often hairy bodies and build nests from wax in much larger colonies, while wasps have smooth, shiny bodies with a defined waist and build paper-like nests from saliva and plant material.
Are bee and wasp stings dangerous?
Stings can cause redness, swelling, hives, itching, and breathing difficulty, and in severe cases can lead to anaphylaxis, so a nest in a high-traffic area is worth taking seriously.
Should I remove a nest myself?
We don't recommend it — disturbing a nest can provoke an aggressive response, and nests inside wall voids or attics need careful handling that's best left to a professional.