How to Identify Stinging Insect Nests

There are insects that can be beneficial, a nuisance or dangerous. And some insects, like stinging insects, can fit more than one of those descriptions. Many are considered beneficial because they help pollinate plants or eliminate other pests. However, they are also seen as dangerous because they send over 500 thousand people to the emergency each year.

Since some stinging insects are known to sting when they feel threatened, it would be wise to know a little more about them. Here is some information to help you understand and identify stinging insects and their nests.

What is a Stinging Insect?

Stinging insects have and use stingers to defend themselves when there is a threat. Some species can be more aggressive than others. But all of them contain venom which may trigger allergic reactions, cause anaphylaxis or cause other serious health problems. Here are some stinging insects you can find in Texas.

Bumblebee – They are completely fuzzy and have oval-shaped bodies with yellow, orange or reddish-orange stripes.

Cicada killer – This large wasp species with a reddish-brown head has a black and yellow abdomen and yellow-tinted wings.

Honey bee – Honey bees have a light, golden brown color with dark brown banding and fine hair.

Paper wasp – They haveblack or brown bodies with yellow or orange markings.

Yellowjackets – These insects have yellow and black stripes and distinct, thin waists.

Identifying Stinging Insect Nests

Stinging insects will build nests on properties that have what they need to survive. Once they have found a place to thrive, they will get to work building. Stinging insects are either ground or aerial nesters. And based on their nests, you can identify the different types of stinging insects. Here are some common nests you may run into.

Yellow jacket – Their oval nests can be found both above and below the ground. They can be found in places like wall voids or under eaves. If underground, they will be flying out from a hole and the nest may not be visible at all. Their nests are gray or brown in color and look like they are made of thin paper.

Paper wasp – These insects like to build hanging nests from things like trees and ceilings. These nests are made from paper-like material and are known for their umbrella shape.

Bumblebee – This insect’s nest is usually found closer to the ground like under stoops, tree hollows, tall grass or gaps in siding. Their nests look like piles of debris because they often line their nests with material like leaves or fur.

Cicada killer – These stinging insects build underground nests where they lay eggs. Their nests go down about a foot in loose soil like in gardens. Cicada killer nests can be identified by having oval-shaped cells.

Being able to recognize the different nests can help you identify what insect you have without needing to get too close. And depending on the type of stinging insect nest you find, you may want to have it removed as soon as possible. For more information or assistance in pest control, contact Worldwide Pest Control Inc. today.