Get Rid of Bees and Wasps

Carpenter bees range from 1/2 to 1 inch (12.5 – 25 mm) long and are robust in form. They look similar to bumble bees but the top part of the abdomen is mostly bare of hairs. Carpenter bees are commonly seen chewing holes on the underside of wood. These holes lead into a gallery that may extend to several feet damaging the structural integrity of the wood. These bees are not social and do not have nests or hives. Male carpenter bees are territorial and often become aggressive hovering and buzzing around ones head. This aggressive behavior is all show since the males have no stinger. The female does have a stinger and the sting can be quite painful, luckily she is not as aggressive as the male and seldom stings. 

The yellowjacket is a social insect forming nests both in and above ground.  Yellowjackets can be very aggressive when disturbed and should be managed by a professional with proper protection.  Often times, homeowners unknowingly encounter yellowjacket nests when doing yard work in the summer and fall.  If a nest is found stay clear of the area until after engaging a professional.

Paper wasps are common around structures and wooded areas. Nests are found in attics, under decks, eave apexes, and many other places.  Paper wasps primarily feed on other insects. Like most other types of stinging insects, they are generally more aggressive in proximity to the nest.

Honey bees are beneficial insects and should not be killed unless it is needed to prevent stings or structural damage. Bees can build their hive in wall voids, attics, in hollowed trees…. Bees can be treated with a dust. However, if the bees have a hive in a structure the control does not stop there; removal of the nest may be required to prevent the honey from rotting and causing problems with odor or infestations of other insects. Honey should NOT be consumed if the nest has been treated with any chemical.

Mud daubers are solitary wasps  although they will sometimes create nests in clusters. Their nests are made from mud and have a variety of forms, as seen here.  The shape of the nest can help identify the particular type of mud dauber.  Generally, they are not aggressive but one should exercise caution when removing active nests.