Bees, Wasps, and Hornets: When is it Time to Call an Wasp Exterminator in Vancouver?

For the most part, bees, wasps, and hornets make up an important part of the Earth’s ecosystem. Bees are beneficial to humans in their role as a major pollinator of flowering plants, while wasps and hornets help by reducing the number of other pest species such as insects, mites, and spiders.

However, there are other instances where these pests can pose a risk to you and your family. Like humans, these insects are highly protective of their territory. They will not hesitate to defend themselves by stinging if they feel threatened. If you happen to find a nest near your home, you may need to call an exterminator in Vancouver. It takes skill, the right experience and the necessary tools and techniques to safely treat the problem and implement effective solutions to reduce these issues in the future.

The Difference between Bees, Wasps, and Hornets

Identifying the biology and routines of each insect will help you determine if they pose a serious enough threat that requires the attention of an exterminator.  Although similar at first glance, there are some major differences between these pests.

Learn the difference between bees, wasps, and hornets here:

● Bees – These insects are defined by their furry-like appearance and distinct black and yellow stripes. Bees can grow up to an inch in length, are gentle in nature and reluctant to sting unless threatened. In fact, unlike wasps or hornets, bees can only sting once and will die shortly after stinging. The habitat and lifespan of a colony of bees are also distinct in nature. For instance, honeybees take shelter from the hollows of trees and reside in hives made from stacks of honeycomb. While bumblebees can live up to a year, honeybees benefit from existing as a colony, where they can huddle together in their hive during the colder months and remain active for over a year. Bees can typically be spotted hovering around gardens since their diet is comprised of the nectar they extract from flowers.

● Wasps – Unlike their furry counterparts, wasps can be identified as having little to no hair and shiny bodies. While these insects are also black and yellow in colour, the colours do not follow the similar striped pattern you can find on a bee. Wasps are also extremely aggressive and will sting readily and repeatedly since their stingers do not detach from their bodies. Because they feed off other insects, sugary drinks, and food waste, wasps can generally be found around places such as outdoor picnic areas and garbage cans. In addition, wasp nests are usually attached to the undersides of overhangs and other sheltered outdoor areas such as under porches, in brick walls, and even in discarded mattresses, carpets, or boxes. Each colony has a lifespan of only a year.

● Hornets – These insects have similar qualities to both the bee and wasp but they also possess a few subtle differences. Hornets are classified as a larger species of wasps but similar to bees, they are less aggressive and their bodies contain some hair. However, their stings are more painful than that of their relatives and they can attack by biting and stinging at the same time. A hornet has a distinct chestnut brown and yellow body and makes its nest from chewing wood to make a papery pulp. Hornets have a lifespan of up to a year and are mainly visible in tree trunks, hollow walls, and attics.

Is Your Backyard Buzzing? Schedule a Pest Control Inspection in Vancouver 

While good for the environment, bees, wasps, and hornets thrive in the summer and their appearance can trigger some anxiety. If you believe these pests are making themselves too comfortable around your home, it is time to call an exterminator.

With nearly 30 years of experience, our team at Pest Detective will not only help you identify insect nests but we can also safely remove them and give you effective suggestions on how to manage their recurrence.

Hire an exterminator in Vancouver today by calling the Pest Detective team. We have various offices to serve you, and we can assist you with your insect concerns, including wasp and hornet extermination.