If you’re a homeowner who spends time in your backyard, you’ve likely seen buzzing insects like wasps and bees. But do you know the difference between these two stinging insects, and whether or not wasps produce honey?
For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.
Wasps and bees are both members of the Hymenoptera order of insects, but they have distinct physical and behavioral differences.
Wasps are typically slimmer and smoother than bees, with a narrow waist and shiny body. They can be yellow and black, brown, or metallic. Unlike bees, wasps are predators and feed on other insects, spiders, and even carrion. Some wasp species are known for their aggressive behavior and painful stings.
Bees, on the other hand, are rounder and hairier than wasps, with a plumper body that’s often striped in black and yellow. Bees are important pollinators and collect nectar from flowers, which they turn into honey. They also create wax to build their hives and store their food.
One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between wasps and bees is by observing their behavior. Bees are generally docile and will only sting if they feel threatened or their hive is disturbed. Wasps, however, can be more aggressive and will often sting repeatedly, even unprovoked.
Another behavioral difference is their social structure. Most wasps are solitary creatures, while bees live in large colonies with a strict hierarchy. This means that bees work together to build their hive and care for their young, while wasps fend for themselves.
While bees are well-known for their ability to produce honey, wasps do not make honey. Wasps are omnivores and feed on a variety of foods, including nectar, fruit, and insects. Some wasp species even steal honey from beehives or feed on the sugary secretions of aphids.
So, if you see a wasp in your backyard, it’s not likely that they’re producing honey. However, wasps are still an important part of the ecosystem and help control populations of other insects.
Now that you know the differences between wasps and bees, you might be wondering how to identify them in your backyard. Here are some tips:
If you notice a lot of wasps or bees in your yard, it’s best to call a professional pest control company to handle any infestations.
In conclusion, while wasps may look similar to bees, they have significant behavioral and physical differences. Although they don’t produce honey, wasps play an important role in controlling other insect populations. By learning about the insects in your backyard, you’ll be better equipped to coexist with them and appreciate the vital role they play in our ecosystem.