At Janssen Pest Solutions, we know how unsettling it can be when bees or wasps take up residence near your home or business. While both insects play important roles in nature, understanding their differences can help you better manage encounters—and protect your property.
Bees vs. Wasps: How to Tell Them Apart
Bees
- Bees have fuzzy, stout bodies covered in fine hairs that help them collect pollen.
- They’re usually brown, black, or golden-yellow with stripes.
- Bees are pollinators—essential for flowers, gardens, and crops.
- Most bees, like honeybees and bumblebees, are not aggressive unless provoked.
Wasps
- Wasps have slender, smooth bodies with a narrow waist between the thorax and abdomen.
- They’re often bright yellow and black with a shiny appearance.
- Unlike bees, wasps are predators and scavengers, feeding on insects and sugary foods.
- Many wasp species, including yellow jackets and paper wasps, can be more aggressive, especially when defending their nests.
Why It Matters
Bees are critical for pollination and biodiversity. Whenever possible, it’s best to relocate a bee colony rather than destroy it. Wasps, on the other hand, can pose a more immediate threat, especially if they build nests near entryways, decks, or playgrounds.
How to Prevent Bees and Wasps Around Your Home
Seal Entry Points
Inspect siding, vents, eaves, and soffits for gaps where bees or wasps could enter and nest. Seal cracks and crevices with caulk or weather stripping.
Eliminate Food Sources
Keep outdoor eating areas clean. Cover trash cans tightly and avoid leaving pet food or sugary drinks outside.
Maintain Landscaping
Trim overgrown shrubs, keep grass mowed, and remove fallen fruit from trees. Wasps love to build nests in dense bushes and trees.
Use Decoys and Traps
Wasp decoys and traps can discourage new colonies from establishing near high-traffic areas.
Regular Inspections
Spring and early summer are prime times for nest-building. Early detection of a small nest makes safe removal much easier.
When to Call the Pros
If you find a nest or experience repeated encounters with aggressive bees or wasps, don’t risk getting stung. Janssen Pest Solutions’ certified team can safely identify the pest, recommend the best approach—whether that’s removal, relocation, or treatment—and help you prevent future infestations.
Contact Janssen Pest Solutions Today
We’re your trusted local experts in Des Moines, Ames, Ankeny, Urbandale, Johnston, Waukee, and throughout Central Iowa. Reach out today for a free inspection and let us help you protect your family, pets, and property from unwanted stinging pests.