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Wasps vs. bees - what's the difference?

What is the difference between a bee and a wasp?

Quick comparison: wasps vs. bees

  • Wasps have a smooth, shiny body; bees are fuzzy and covered in fine hairs
  • Wasps can sting repeatedly; most bees can only sting once before they die
  • Wasps often nest under eaves or underground; bees build hives in trees, walls, or man-made hive boxes
  • Wasps feed on other insects and sugary foods; bees rely on pollen and nectar.

The difference between bees and wasps

At a glance, wasps and bees can look pretty similar, but a closer look makes it easy to tell a wasp from a bee.

Bee

Bees have a rounder, fuzzy body covered in fine hairs, built for collecting pollen as they move between flowers.

  • Appearance - Fuzzy, rounded body with fine hairs, usually gold and black or brown
  • Habitat - Hives built in tree hollows, wall cavities, or man-made hive boxes
  • Behavior - Generally calm unless the hive is threatened or disturbed
  • Risks - Most bees can only sting once; some people may have a serious allergic reaction

Wasp

Wasps have a slender, smooth body and a narrow waist, and most species are known for their bold yellow and black markings.

  • Appearance - Smooth, shiny body with a narrow waist, typically yellow and black
  • Habitat - Nests under eaves, in wall voids, trees, or underground
  • Behavior - Can become defensive near the nest and are capable of stinging multiple times
  • Risks - Sting can cause pain and swelling; some people may have a serious allergic reaction

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Signs of an infestation

An increase in buzzing insects around your home, along with a visible nest or hive, is usually the clearest sign. Wasp nests are typically papery and grayish, while bee hives look waxy and are often tucked into trees, wall cavities, or hive boxes. If you spot either one, it's best to avoid disturbing it and let our technicians take a look.

Prevention tips

Sealing gaps around your roofline, siding, and foundation removes potential nesting spots for both wasps and bees. Keeping food, drinks, and trash covered outdoors also helps avoid attracting them to your yard.

Frequently asked questions

Bees have a fuzzy, rounded body, while wasps are smooth and shiny with a narrow waist. Bees also tend to be calmer unless their hive is disturbed, while wasps can be more defensive.

Wasps can sting multiple times since they don't lose their stinger, while most bees can only sting once before they die. Either sting can cause pain and swelling, so visit a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe.

Bees can settle in and build a hive faster than you'd expect.

Wasps don't take long to move in and build a nest once they've found the right spot.

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