If you just saw something yellow and black buzzing around, you likely assumed it was a honey bee. However, it actually could've been a variety of insects, including a wasp or a yellow jacket. Before calling wildlife control to remove these stinging pests, learn more about how to identify them and determine their threat level below.

Honey Bees

The easiest way to differentiate a honey bee from a wasp is to look at their shape. Honey bees have distinctive barrel-shaped bodies that differ from wasps, whose bodies are elongated and feature thin mid-sections. Honey bees are also typically a soft caramel color and are covered in small hairs that make them appear fuzzy.

These hairs are essential to the survival of the bee, as they help them gather pollen and transport it from flower to flower. Unlike wasps, honey bees are docile and typically avoid humans unless they're defending their nests. These structures have distinctive honeycomb builds and can be found hidden away in hollow trees or other protected structures.

Wasps & Yellowjackets

The two most common types of wasp are paper wasps and yellowjackets. Paper wasps are bright yellow and black with thin, segmented, and shiny bodies. Their antennae are typically black with orange tips, and they have long and skinny black or dark-brown wings. Yellowjackets are named for the color of their bodies, which are predominately yellow and mottled with black spots and thin stripes. Unlike paper wasps, yellowjackets have thicker bodies and solid black antennae.

Paper wasps are generally docile, and like honeybees, they'll avoid humans unless provoked. Yellowjackets are more aggressive and will sting both to defend their nests and without provocation, swarming when they feel threatened. Paper wasps also often build their nests on man-made structures, such as eaves or patio furniture, while yellowjackets tend to build their nests underground, in walls or under eaves of houses. Moving a wasp nest on your own can be dangerous, so if you find one, contact wildlife control for help.

If you have a pest infestation, contact the professionals at Urban Wildlife Control in Roswell, GA. Since 2003, their team of licensed and insured agents has worked to safely remove and relocate animals and pests using humane practices. Contact them today at (678) 493-7194 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their wildlife control services.