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Bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets are stinging insects. The aforementioned pests and ants belong to the Hymenoptera family of insects. While you’ll want to get rid of these pests quickly, they’re beneficial pollinators. As long as they’re not bothering you or damaging your property, you should likely leave them alone. In addition to this, you’ll want to identify the species you’re dealing with, so you can determine if they’re aggressive and how to remove them.
In Denver, some of the most common stinging insects you’ll find include bald-faced hornets, honeybees, carpenter bees, paper wasps, and yellow jackets. Below, you’ll learn more about identifying the type of stinging insect you’re dealing with right now.
What Stinging Insect Do I Have?
To determine what stinging insect you’re dealing with, you need to look at the insect and its nest.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are moderately aggressive. They will usually not bother you unless you come in close contact with them or their nest. The next is small and gray with a round shape. You’ll notice that the nest has a honeycomb pattern. Paper wasp nests can be found under overhangs, on fences, and under eaves.
There are two types of paper wasps that you’ll encounter. The European Paper Wasp is striped yellow and black. It has orange antennas. As for the Northern Paper Wasp, the insect will have a brown body and dark orange areas. On its abdomen, you will find yellow or white stripes.
Yellow Jackets
This stinging insect is very aggressive. It is pertinent to stay away from this pest during late summer and fall since the colony reaches its peak population then. Yellow jacket nests are large with lots of pests nearby. The nest will likely be covered with a gray or black material that resembles paper. It is common to find yellow jacket nests in attics, dense bushes, and under porches.
Certain species prefer building nests in the ground. You can spot a yellow jacket easily because they have black and yellow stripes along the abdomen and head. They have black antennas. These stinging insects are very fast when flying.
Bald-Faced Hornet
Bald-faced hornets tend to be very aggressive with their aggression levels peaking during late Summer and Fall. Their nests are very large and they have a tear-drop shape. Most bald-faced hornet nests will be attached to trees, bushes, tall grass, or buildings. A bald-faced hornet will have a white and black smooth body. The body parts will be slightly larger, and this stinging insect will have an abdomen with a stinger.
Honey Bees
Honey bees are usually not aggressive. Some strains are gentle. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to wear protective clothing when approaching a honey bee nest. You can spot a honey bee nest easily since the hives are intricate with combs made from wax. Honey bees build hives in wall cavities, rocks, and trees. If you see honeycombs, you can guarantee that you’re dealing with a honey bee.
You can spot honeybees easily because they have a unique appearance. Their fuzzy body is orange and yellow.
Carpenter Bees
In most cases, carpenter bees are not going to be aggressive. Even if you approach their nest, they likely will not attack you. However, you will find that these pests will destroy your property. This stinging insect will bore holes in your wood siding, decks, and fascia. These holds tend to be perfectly round and 3/8 of an inch in diameter. Surprisingly, carpenter bees do not eat wood. Instead, it is discarded and the cavity provides room for rearing its offspring.
Carpenter bees are large and look like bumblebees. Their appearance depends on the region. However, most have a yellow and black thorax along with a shiny, black stomach. Male carpenter bees will have a yellow spot on their face.
Do Stinging Inspects Pose A Risk?
It is vital to understand that many stinging insects can be dangerous. However, some are not going to pose a risk. As long as you stay away from the insect and its nest, you likely will not get stung. In addition to this, males do not sting. When noticing a colony, you’ll want to stay away from larger colonies since they’re more aggressive. If you see one or two bees, you likely won’t have any problems unless you try to touch them.
What Causes Stinging Insects?
Stinging insects tend to target homes and buildings because they’re interested in building nests.
How Do I Eliminate Stinging Insects From My Home?
Ultimately, getting rid of stinging insects can be dangerous, and you don’t want to get stung. It is best to hire a professional. It is too dangerous to combat this problem alone. We highly recommend using our services, so you don’t have to worry about the risks involved. Our company has been helping Denver residents get rid of stinging insects for many years. Contact us so we can get started immediately.
Are Your Treatments Safe?
Our company strives to provide our clients with safe, effective treatments. We use products that are registered with the EPA to make sure that you’re going to be safe. If you want to minimize the risks, you should contact us.
How Much Does It Cost To Exterminate Stinging Insects?
The cost will depend on several factors, including the type of stinging insect you’re dealing with currently. Below, you will find a list of factors that will impact the price you’ll pay.
- Type and species
- Size of your home
- The location and size of the nest
When Can You Get Started?
Stinging insects are dangerous and frightening. As a result, we’re going to rush to your home within 24 to 48 hours.
Can I Stop Future Stinging Insect Infestations?
Unfortunately, it is difficult to prevent stinging insects from entering your property. These insects are opportunistic and will do whatever they have to do to build nests. However, we can help. By paying an affordable, annual fee, you can take advantage of our inspection services. We can help identify potential signs of a stinging insect infestation. Our service guarantees that we’ll be able to stop the infestation before it spirals out of control.
If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.