Wasps and Bees in the Wild West

Wasps nest before removal, on a home patio in Maricopa, Arizona.


Wasps nest before removal, on a home patio in Maricopa, Arizona.

The wasp is a terrifying insect, not only does it have the ability to fly and sting, it can also bite. This is the reason many people believe that being “stung” by a wasp is much more severe than being stung by a bee. While the sting is still very painful, some bees die after stinging just once, so they aren’t always able to continuously attack. The wasp on the other hand, is capable of attacking over and over again, biting and stinging it’s victim.

Wasps and bees are in the same Hymenoptera classification, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are the same insect. There is a distinct physical difference between the two. Wasps have a much more slender appearance, and typically less hair, than bees. Another big difference is that while bees feed pollen from plants, wasps are carnivorous, and more aggressive. Wasps usually use other insects as a host for their young, as well as for food. One thing that bees and wasps do have in common is that they are very “social” insects, in that they live in a colony with others of their kind.

Bee and comb removal, Coolidge, Arizona.

Bee and comb removal, Coolidge, Arizona.

Wasp and bee stings can be very severe. A pest control operator was stung on leg, through bee suit, in Coolidge, Arizona.

Wasp and bee stings can be very severe. A pest control operator was stung on leg, through bee suit, in Coolidge, Arizona.

Getting rid of a bee hive or a wasps nest can be very dangerous for someone who doesn’t have the proper equipment or training to do the job. Depending on the size of the insect nest, a bee suit, and the right chemicals/pesticides are always required. Safety and precaution is imperative when dealing with these flying insects.

Safety is key in wasp and bee removal. Corey Finley, co-owner and operator of Bug Off Pest Control, in proper protective equipment.

Safety is key in wasp and bee removal. Corey Finley, co-owner and operator of Bug Off Pest Control, in proper protective equipment.