As a homeowner in Durham, North Carolina, you may have noticed some pesky insects buzzing around your backyard. While some of these insects may be harmless, others can pose a threat to you and your family. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of wasps and bees you might encounter in Durham and how to deal with them.
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.
There are several types of wasps that you may come across in Durham. Here are some of the most common:
Paper wasps are usually brown or black with yellow markings on their bodies. They build nests out of paper-like material and hang them from trees, eaves, and other structures. If you discover a paper wasp nest in your backyard, it’s best to leave it alone and contact a professional pest control company to remove it.
Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that is known for their aggressive behavior. They are yellow and black and often build their nests underground. If you see a yellow jacket nest in your backyard, it’s important to call a professional to remove it as soon as possible.
Hornets are a type of wasp that can be identified by their large size and brown or black coloration with white or yellow markings. They build large nests that are usually located high up in trees. If you find a hornet nest in your backyard, it’s important to contact a professional to remove it.
Bees are generally less aggressive than wasps, but they can still pose a threat if their nests are disturbed. Here are some of the most common types of bees in Durham:
Honey bees are usually light brown or golden in color and are known for their ability to produce honey. They build their hives in protected areas such as hollow trees or inside walls. If you discover a honey bee hive on your property, it’s important to contact a local beekeeper who can safely remove it.
Bumble bees are larger than honey bees and have a fuzzy appearance. They build their nests in protected areas such as under decks or in woodpiles. If you discover a bumble bee nest on your property, it’s best to leave it alone as they are not typically aggressive unless provoked.
To prevent wasps and bees from becoming a problem in your backyard, here are some tips to keep in mind:
By following these prevention tips and knowing how to identify and deal with wasps and bees, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about pesky stingers.