While both are unwelcome pests that have wings and a stinger, bees and wasps differ significantly. If you have an infestation near your house, understanding these distinctions will help you know which pest management solution you’ll need. Use this guide to learn more about their differences.

Bees

Bees have a slightly plump, full appearance. They have hairy bodies, barbed stingers, and flattened hind legs featuring compact structures called pollen baskets. In addition to feeding on floral pollen and nectar, they can also be found snacking on scraps in the trash can.

Bees typically make their hives in the hollows of trees and along the edges of the roof system. These structures are made with a combination of beeswax and saliva to make honeycombs. The honeycombs are arranged in a series of hexagonal shells.

Wasps

By contrast, wasps feature considerably slimmer bodies with narrow waists. They’re smooth and shiny, without the telltale barbed stinger that bees have. Instead, they have hanging hind legs that are visible during flight.

Wasps feed on their fellow insects to provide their offspring with a complete and nutritious diet. Some adult wasps may also consume rotting fruit and nectar. To create their nest, wasps chew fibrous wood and combine it with their saliva. They spit out the mixture to design a muddy or papery structure and prefer to build it in wall cavities and bird boxes.

If you think you have a wasp or bee infestation on your property, turn to the skilled exterminators at AAA Termite & Pest Control in Kaneohe, HI. Serving clients throughout Oahu, this pest management company will locate the nest, then eradicate the insects to eliminate the risk of stings. Visit the website to find out more about their residential pest control services, or call (808) 247-5533 to schedule an appointment.