Bees are among the most important members of the flying insect family due to their role in pollination. And while there are over 25,000 bee species worldwide, there are three that dominate the U.S. landscape: honey bees, carpenter bees, and bumblebees. Take a moment to learn about these species and whether pest control methods are necessary to keep them from taking over your property.

3 Types Of Bees: A Simple Guide

1. Bumble

Known for their chubby appearance, bumblebees are welcome additions to any garden. They look fuzzy even from a distance and only the females have stingers. Bumblebees are gentle creatures unless they are provoked. These black and white insects move from flower to flower to gather nectar; however, they do not produce as much honey as honey bees. They also like disheveled nests made of dry leaves, grass clippings, and even loose material from outdoor furniture cushions.

In addition to ensuring your outdoor furniture cushions are in good condition and free of holes, keep grass and leaf piles to a minimum to discourage hidden bee nests or habitats for other creatures. Focus on planting bumblebee-preferred flowers instead to help them pollinate.

2. Honey

Featuring brown and mustard-yellow colors, honey bees are essential to the pollination of many fruit and vegetable crops, including apples and corn. They live in large colonies as honey bees are social creatures, and may build their nests in gaps or crevices of house exteriors. These bees only sting if they are under attack.

If you discover a honey bee colony on the exterior of your home, call pest control services immediately to safely move the hive to a secure location.

3. Carpenter

Perhaps the most destructive member of the species, black and yellow carpenter bee females create round holes in wooden structures, such as a back porch. They do so to make space for their eggs, and only affect the surface of wood to avoid serious structural damage. Carpenter bees are also pollinating insects with a love for plants in the mint family such as lavender and oregano.

While these bees affect the appearance of wooden structures, their pollination role calls for humane pest control methods to relocate them to a safe outdoor space.

If you live in the Cincinnati, OH, area and are looking for affordable pest control services to deal with bees or other creatures such as termites, rely on Select Pest Control. The company has proudly served the Greater Cincinnati area for over 30 years and offers residential and commercial services, free inspections, and personalized solutions that won’t hurt your wallet. Call (513) 352-0080 today to schedule an inspection or visit the exterminators online for more about pest control. Follow the company on Twitter for helpful pest and animal control tips.