Identifying When You Have a Bee Issue

Seeing bees, wasps, and even hornets once and a while is completely normal. In fact, bees, wasps, and hornets are welcomed insects and some even play an important role in our ecosystem. Identifying when you have a bee issue can be difficult, especially because many stinging insects look so similar! It’s important to learn about identifying bees because wasps and hornets in particular can be more aggressive and potentially dangerous.

Here at Leo's Pest Control, we know that stinging insects can be distressing. Read on to learn about identifying when you have a bee issue.

Identifying Bees in Bristol and Johnson City TN

There’s no denying that for most people, it’s easy to confuse bees with wasps and wasps with hornets. Because it’s dangerous to try to get close enough to identify which type you’re dealing with, it’s recommended to identify them by their unique nests. If you see any of the following nests that are bigger than the size of your fist, it’s important to be cautious:

1. Bald-faced hornet nests
   • Usually found in tree stumps or wall cavities, bald-faced hornet nests also create paper-like nests.
2. Yellowjacket nests
   • These nests are in a papery substance and are often found within wall voids or cavities in the ground.
3. Paper wasp nests
   • Paper wasps create open, exposed nests that most often resemble upside-down umbrellas.

Dangerous Bees, Wasps & Hornets

Many types of bees do not sting, but some wasps and hornets do. Their behavior can be aggressive and unpredictable, especially during the late summer and fall. Although they won’t usually attack unless threatened, it’s best to avoid walking up to any nests. Especially if someone is allergic, it’s smart to never disturb a nest at all. If you spot a nest bigger than the size of your fist on your property, it’s best to call a professional wasp exterminator who can take care of it in a way that is safe for you and your family!

What to Do About Dangerous Bees

If you’re having trouble identifying bees, it’s better to be safe than sorry and enlist the help of a professional pest control company. If you notice a growing problem on your property—or if a wasp or hornet nest is seen—it’s time to call a professional exterminator. At Leo’s, our bee and wasp removal is safe, quick, and effective.