large hornet's nest, empty and abandoned close-up

Identifying a Stinging Insect Nest

Wasps, bees, and hornets all play an important role in the pollination of the natural environment. However, when they decide to build a nest near your home they present a serious health risk and can cause damage. The following some tips on how to identify a stinging insect nest.

Bee Nests

Bumblebees

Bumblebees pollinate flowers which makes them a beneficial insect. They are capable of stinging, and control is necessary if they are living in or close to your home. Bumble bee nests are typically crafted using clumps of pollen, and are located in the ground or grassy areas.

Honey Bees

Honey bees are social insects that live together as colonies in a hive constructed out of honeycomb. They are a vital part of the natural ecosystem because they produce honey. They are not aggressive, and will not actively search out for people to sting. If they feel threatened then they will sting in defense.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are hornets that live in solitude without a colony. The females craft their nests in the mud by digging small mud tubes. They prey on spiders, so they are considered a beneficial insect. Control is necessary if they are located near your home.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are named after the material that they use to craft their nests. The paper-like material can typically be found hanging from a tree, door frame, porch ceiling and railings. They are typically non aggressive, but you will most likely get stung if you touch their nest. They are considered a beneficial insect because they control a variety of pest insect species, but they can pose a threat to humans.

Yellowjackets

Yellowjackets construct their nests using paper cartons, and they can become as large as a basketball. They tend to build their nests close to the ground hanging from a garage, shed or bush. They are typically hesitant to sting unless their nest is under threat.

Leave Control to the Professionals

Being stung by a swarm of stinging insects can be life-threatening, especially for people that are allergic. Removing a stinging insect nest is an incredibly dangerous procedure that should be left to professional pest control technicians..They will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to properly identify the stinging insects, and safely remove their nest from your home. Many stinging insects play beneficial roles in preserving the environment, and it is often possible to relocate the nest.