These insects are more than just a painful nuisance. In some cases, a homeowner can be affected by multiple stings at once. Those who enjoy spending time in their yards may affect a nest without ever having the chance to realize their mistake. In order to remain protected, a family must make sure that they are removing all nests and hives from the premises.

This is not a task that should be handled without professional assistance, though. Take the time to walk around the property on a regular basis. Are the eaves and overhangs being inspected regularly? What about the underside of the decks and porches? These are all areas where bees, wasps and other stinging insects like to spend their time.

Sheds, trees, shrubs and any structures on the property must also be examined. Allow the professionals to remove all hives and nests. If the homeowner attempts to remove them on their own, they may be attacked by a bee or wasp colony that has become defensive in nature. The professionals can move these hives in the safest possible manner.

There are some insects that pose a far greater risk than others. The following guide will let homeowners know exactly what to expect.

Bees

Homeowners need to be aware of the different types of bees and the effects that they may have. All bees are not alike and determining the species can go a long way.

Bumblebees

These bees will construct their nests wherever they can find pollen clumps. If mice have abandoned a nest on the property, bumblebees may decide to take over. The bumblebee is believed to be beneficial to a property because of their pollination abilities. However, their stings can be problematic, and some form of pest control is necessary.

Carpenter Bees

The carpenter bee looks similar to the bumblebee. Homeowners who wish to tell the difference will need to look at the top of their abdomen, as this area is shiny and bare. The carpenter bee is not going to be found in a traditional colony. These bees bore into wood to make their homes. Weathered and decayed wood is preferred. If these bees are not eliminated in a timely manner, they can pose a serious threat to property. The female carpenter is far more likely to sting than the male.

Honey Bees

The honey bee is a more social insect by nature. They are not considered to be as dangerous as the bumblebee or the carpenter bee. A homeowner must be aware of their presence, though. The honey bees are not an aggressive insect but they will attack if they sense any form of disturbance to their colonies.

Other Stinging Insects

Paper Wasps

The paper wasp nest is often found in a residential setting. These wasps get their name from the paper-like materials that they will use to construct their dwellings. Nests like these can be found on porch ceilings and doorways. Eaves, railings and deck floor joints are also common hiding spots for the paper wasp.

Yellow Jackets

The yellow jacket is not always considered to be a threat because they are not likely to attack. This keeps homeowners from taking the proper steps to eliminate them. When these nests are found close to a structure of any kind, intervention is needed. Their ability to control other species of insect is helpful but they must still be removed.

Velvet Ants

While the ant is not typically associated with a powerful sting, velvet ants can cause any number of problems if they are not removed from the premises. These ants can find their way into the same nests that are currently being used by wasps and bees. Their sting is rather potent, but the females are the most dangerous. Male velvet ants do not possess stingers.

European Hornets

These larger hornets will construct nests out of paper cartons and protect them with brown paper envelopes. They may be able to control the onset of other pest species but this does not mean that their presence should be tolerated. When these nests are located near a home, professional assistance should be sought immediately.

Bald Faced Hornets

Much like the European hornets, these insects are not always removed in a timely manner because of the positive effects that they have to offer. The nests must still be removed by the professionals as soon as possible.

Bees, wasps and other stinging insects can cause a host of issues if they are not removed in a timely manner. Even when these pests are believed to be beneficial to a property, they will still need to be removed entirely. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to stinging insects. Be sure to contact a professional as soon as these insects make their way onto a residential property!

Call Alliance for all your bee and wasp stinging insect services. Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.