Bees, Wasps & Hornets

 
 

Bees, Wasps, and Hornets: The Buzz on Staying Safe

Bees, wasps, and hornets—love them or hate them, they’re part of the backyard squad you don’t want to mess with. Here’s everything you need to know to stay out of their sting zone and keep your yard (and you) safe.

Meet the Players: Who’s Who in the Buzzing Brigade

1. Bees:
Bees are the peacekeepers. They’re all about pollinating flowers and helping your garden thrive. But if they feel threatened, especially near their hive, they’ll defend it with a sting.

  • Spotting Them: Bees are rounder, with fuzzy bodies, usually in shades of yellow, black, or brown. Think bumblebee or honeybee—these guys look almost cuddly (but don’t test it).

  • When They Sting: Only if they feel you’re threatening their hive, and even then, they’re likely to die after they sting. So, they’re as motivated to avoid you as you are to avoid them.

2. Wasps:
Unlike bees, wasps are far more aggressive, especially around food. If you’ve ever had a picnic crashed by a swarm, you know these guys don’t need much of a reason to show up.

  • Spotting Them: Wasps are slimmer, with smooth, shiny bodies—usually black and yellow. And unlike bees, they can sting repeatedly without paying the price.

  • When They Sting: Anytime you startle them or get too close to their nest. Wasps will defend their turf and are not shy about it.

3. Hornets:
Hornets are basically wasps on steroids—larger, meaner, and even more territorial. They protect their nests aggressively, and you don’t want to accidentally wander too close.

  • Spotting Them: Hornets are bigger, with a more robust build than wasps. They’re also black and white (instead of black and yellow).

  • When They Sting: Often. If you’re near a hornet nest, they see it as game on. Hornets are highly territorial and will send out an attack squad if they feel threatened.

How to Stay Safe

1. Around Bees
Bees are generally peaceful, but give them space. They love flowers, so if you’re gardening, be mindful of them.

  • Tip #1: Avoid wearing bright colors and floral prints when you’re outdoors. Bees might think you’re a giant flower, and that’s a compliment you don’t want.

  • Tip #2: Don’t swat at bees. Moving quickly can agitate them and lead to stings.

  • Tip #3: If you notice a hive forming around your home, give us a call. Removing a beehive safely and ethically requires a pro touch, especially if you want the bees relocated rather than eliminated.

2. Around Wasps
Wasps are more curious and aggressive, especially around food. So, if you’re eating outdoors, keep your food covered and don’t leave sugary drinks unattended.

  • Tip #1: Keep your trash cans sealed tightly. Wasps are attracted to sugary leftovers and anything sweet-smelling.

  • Tip #2: Avoid wearing sweet perfumes or using scented body lotions outside; wasps might be lured to you thinking you’re dessert.

  • Tip #3: Spot a wasp nest around your home? Don’t try to knock it down! Call us instead. Wasps can get defensive fast, and they don’t play nice.

3. Around Hornets
With hornets, the golden rule is don’t engage. Their nests are typically higher up, in trees or roof eaves, but that doesn’t mean they won’t notice you nearby.

  • Tip #1: Don’t go near hornet nests, period. If you spot one, keep your distance and don’t disturb it.

  • Tip #2: Keep outdoor lights low at night, as lights attract hornets. If they gather, they might view any close movement as a threat.

  • Tip #3: Trying to remove a hornet nest yourself is a recipe for disaster. Hornets will defend their home, and unlike bees, they’ll come out stinging again and again. Give us a call if you have a nest nearby, and we’ll take care of it professionally.

How We Can Help

Trying to DIY bee, wasp, or hornet removal is like poking the bear—except these bears fly and sting. Kenney’s Pest Control has the gear, experience, and know-how to handle these buzzing invaders safely. So, whether it’s a hive you want relocated or a wasp or hornet nest you want gone, we’ve got you covered.

Want a peaceful, sting-free yard? Reach out, and we’ll help you take back your outdoor space from these unwanted guests. 🐝