Alert:
Bees, hornets and wasps are all types of flying insects, but they have some differences in terms of appearance, behavior and habitat.
Wasps and hornets are general scavengers feeding on other insects, food left lying around and decaying fruit. Examples of wasps in Fairfax County are bald-faced hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets.
Bees are known for their role in pollination and are generally less aggressive than hornets and some species of wasps. They have a more robust, hairy body and are typically black and yellow in color. Pollen and nectar are the main sources of food for bees. Examples of bees in Fairfax County are bumblebees, honey bees and carpenter bees.
Hornets are a type of wasp that are generally larger and more aggressive. They have a smooth body and are often black and white or black and yellow in color. Hornets can build large nests and are known for their potent sting.
Wasps are a diverse group of insects that can vary in size, color and behavior and are typically hairless. They usually have a slender body with a narrow waist and can be brightly colored. Wasps can be social or solitary. Their behavior can range from mildly aggressive to highly aggressive depending on the species.
While bees and wasps can be scary, it is possible to live harmoniously with these stinging creatures. We recommend practicing the following tips the next time you are outdoors.
Broad spectrum insecticides not only kill targeted pests, they also kill beneficial insects, including bees, butterflies and ladybugs. Bees and butterflies are important pollinators that aid food production. Birds and other animals that eat insects suffer when insect populations decline.