Stinging Insects
Bees, Wasps, and Other Pollinating Powerhouses
You’re not alone if you’ve ever gasped and run away when you spot a bee or wasp near you! Most people feel a sense of dread when they sense a stinging insect is near. And while these pests can be dangerous, especially to people with allergies, they play a vital role in our ecosystem. It’s essential to reach out to professionals if you think you have a severe stinging insect problem so they can safely remove the pests without causing environmental harm.
Stinging Insects At-A-Glance
Vary in size from less than an inch long to several inches long
Can be extremely dangerous
Hundreds of types of stinging insects live in the United States
Play a vital role as pollinators
Concerned You Have a Bee or Wasp Problem?
Stinging Insect FAQs
Bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants are the main stinging insects. These insects sting as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or to protect their nests/colonies.
Most stinging insects have a stinger (modified ovipositor) at the end of their abdomen that injects venom when they sting. The venom helps subdue prey and deter predators.
Insect stings typically cause immediate, intense burning and pain at the sting site. Over the next few hours, the area becomes red, swollen, and itchy. Allergic reactions can cause more severe responses, like anaphylaxis.
Yes, some stinging insects, such as honeybees, hornets, and fire ants, are considered more medically significant due to their potent venom and tendency to sting in swarms, delivering multiple stings.
All bees pollinate to some extent, but honeybees and bumblebees are more vital to our environment.
Stinging insects are often attracted to food sources like crumbs, spills, and sweet drinks. Nests and colonies may also form near human structures.
Avoid disturbing insect nests, remain calm around stinging insects, wear protective clothing, use insect repellents, and eliminate sources that attract them.
Yes! Carpenter bees can cause substantial damage to wooden structures by boring holes in them when it’s time to lay eggs.
For social insects like wasps and bees, it’s best to hire a professional exterminator to safely remove nests and colonies. Do not attempt removal yourself.
