Stinging Insect Identification & Prevention

What Are Stinging Insects?

There are many different types of stinging insects found living throughout the United States. Bees, yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets are a few common examples. Stinging insects are beneficial to the environment as the predatory species hunt down and feed on many different species of nuisance insects, helping to keep their populations down. In addition, many species of bees and other stinging insects are responsible for pollinating a variety of plants, flowers, and crops which plays a huge part in the eco-system.

Are Stinging Insects Dangerous?

Stinging insects are most active at the end of the summer and beginning of early fall, when their colonies are at peak numbers and are out frantically foraging for food. Not all species of stinging insects are aggressive, but many are. However, all species of stinging insects will defend themselves or their nests by delivering a painful stings, when necessary. For the most part, stinging insects are considered dangerous because their venom is powerful enough to trigger allergic reactions or sometimes even sometimes, even anaphylaxis which is a serious and sometimes even life-threatening allergic reaction that will require medical attention.

Stinging insects are attracted to properties that provide them with the things they need to survive, thrive, and grow their populations, typically in the form of food and water sources and sheltered areas to build their nests. Depending on their exact species, they may feed on insects, proteins, nectar, sweets, and honeydew. In addition, stinging insects are attracted to properties which give them access to open trash cans, compost piles, gardens or fruit trees, flowering vegetation, clogged gutters, bird baths, and ponds.

Where Will I Find Stinging Insects?

Stinging insects will build their nests in a variety of locations as long as they are provided with the appropriate protection and shelter. Some species of stinging insects are considered ground nesters while others have been deemed aerial nesters, and some will nest both in the ground and in higher locations. Once on your property, these pests will create their nests in rock crevices, on rock overhangs, and under porches, decks, and roof eaves and can also be found inside attics, crawl spaces, and in outbuildings like barns, sheds, and garages. In addition, you may also find their nests around your property in and on trees and on utility poles.