No matter the circumstances, when most people see a black and yellow critter buzzing their way they head for the hills. But did you know that there are several key differences between bees and wasps? Although they are similar in color and both possess the ability to sting, the physical and behavioral characteristics of bees and wasps are actually drastically different. Here’s a quick look at the differences between bees and wasps:

Physical Characteristics: Contrary to their comparative coloring, bees and wasps actually look very different up close.

  • Stinger – Though both have stingers with backward-pointed barbs to lock into their victim, some bees, like honeybee workers, actually die after stinging, while other bees and wasps live on. The physical attributes of wasps are also slightly different in that they have smaller, more lethal barbs.
  • Body & Legs – Bees are known for their fuller, rounder, fuzzier bodies, whereas wasps are typically slender and smooth. Similarly, bees have fuzzy, flat legs, while wasps’ legs are round and virtually hair-free.

Behavioral Characteristics: Most people believe bees and wasps to have the same motives and aggressive tendencies, which is actually not the case.

  • Aggressiveness – Typically bees are less aggressive compared to wasps, who can sting multiple targets upon attack. This difference in aggression makes a lot of sense when looked at in comparison to both of their feeding habits.
  • Feeding Habits – While bees are pollinators feeding on pollen and nectar, wasps are predators. They prey on other insects and scavenge for food.
  • Social and Living Habits – Bees are generally very social and travel in colonies, while wasps tend to vary between social and solitary based on their species. While their social habits are different, so are their choice in living quarters. Bees live in geometric wax hives, while wasps take shelter in papery nests.

If you fear that your home is being threatened by a potential bee or wasp infestation, or if you’d just like to take precautionary measures to keep your friends and family from being stung this summer, call Pest Control Unlimited at 888-649-9919 today. We’re dedicated to going one step further than the rest by focusing on our customer’s needs and building long-lasting relationships with them.