How to Differentiate Between Bees, Wasps and Hornets

A Guide for Effective Pest Control

Bees, wasps and hornets look quite similar at first glance, and it can be hard to tell them apart. They’re all very different though, and knowing how to differentiate between them can allow you to access the right pest control services. Here at Town and Country Pests, we specialise in bee, hornet, and wasp pest control. Here’s everything you need to know.

Physical Characteristics

Bees typically have a robust, hairy body that is quite plump. They also have flattened hind legs. In terms of colour, they usually have yellow and black bands, with tails ranging from white to orange. There are many different kinds though!

Wasps have a slender body with a distinctive narrow waist. They come in various colours and don’t have the fuzzy hair that you see in bees. Instead, wasps have smooth bodies with distinct markings.

Hornets are the largest of the three and often have a brown or reddish colour with yellow markings. They have a robust, thick body and can grow up to several centimetres in length, so their size is normally a giveaway. If you suspect that it is an Asian Hornet, you must report this via the ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app. This is because these hornets are an invasive species and can affect native bee populations.

Nesting Behaviour

Bee nests are made of wax and are made up of hexagonal cells arranged in that famed honeycomb pattern. They tend to nest in sheltered areas such as trees or wall voids.

Unlike bees, wasps are more solitary in nature and build their nests from paper-like material derived from wood fibres. Their nests can be found in many different locations, including eaves, lofts, and even shrubbery.

Hornets construct large nests made of paper-like material. These nests are often suspended from tree branches or are built in attics and wall voids, putting them somewhere between wasps and bees.

Behaviour and Aggression

Bees are generally docile creatures and will only sting when provoked or threatened. They play a crucial role in pollination and are less likely to attack unless their hive is disturbed – making them the easiest of the three to deal with.

Wasps can be more aggressive than bees, especially when defending their nest. Some species, such as yellow jackets, are known for their territorial behaviour and can sting repeatedly.

Hornets are generally accepted to be the most aggressive of the three and will vigorously defend their nest if disturbed. Their sting is potent and can cause severe reactions in people who are allergic to their venom.

A Guide for Effective Pest Control

Physical Characteristics

Nesting Behaviour

Behaviour and Aggression

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