Wasps

(Vespidae)

Wasps are any insect of the narrow waisted order Hymenoptera. Technically not a Bee or an Ant. They are generally predatory with the ability to sting multiple times. There are both solitary wasps and social wasps (which live in colonies).

Appearance

They have long, slim bodies with little to no hair on them. Wasps are classified by their pinched waist (petiole) and are commonly a variation of black and yellow color. Unlike a common bee, Wasps fly with their legs hanging.

Signs Of Activity

Wasps use their saliva to break down wood, using it for nests. Also their nests are quite large, with a paper texture and an entry hole towards the bottom. Most wasps will nest either underground or in porch areas.

CEDAR TREE / PESTS

BEE FACTS &
EDUCATION

Identifying Wasps, Carpenter Bees & Hornets by their body composition and nest building.

Hornets

(Vespa)

Being part of the Wasp family, only about 20 species of Hornets are recognized. They are usually distinguished from Wasps by their larger size (specifically their head). Their venom contains histamines, which can cause allergic reactions.

Appearance

Besides their larger size (up to 2x the size of a Wasp), Hornets have a brown coloring on their bodies with yellow/orange stripes and golden-brown wings. They have thicker and more elongated bodies than Wasps do.

Signs Of Activity

Since Hornets are similar to Wasps, their nesting is quite similar. They travel in groups when their about to nest. So keep an eye out for the increased activity.

Carpenter Bees

(Xylocopa)

The name "Carpenter Bee", similar to Carpenter Ants, get their name from their nesting technique which involves tunneling through wood, leaving circular holes. They attracted to flowers and untreated wood (used for fences, decks, and sheds).

Appearance

They resemble large Bumble Bees, but there are subtle characteristics to tell them apart such as the smooth black abdomen on the Carpenter bee. They are also solitary bees, meaning they rarely swarm and sting.

Signs Of Activity

Carpenter Bees create smooth holes about 1/2 an inch wide through wood. They'll leave behind saw dust (Frass) around the outside of the holes. You may also hear a buzzing/burrowing noises nearby.