If you’ve ever encountered a wasp or bee in your backyard, you may have wondered if these insects are aggressive. While both wasps and bees are known for their stingers, their behaviors differ greatly. In this article, we’ll discuss the behavior of wasps and bees in your backyard and answer the question, “are wasps aggressive?”
For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.
Before we dive into the behavior of wasps and bees, it’s important to understand the difference between these two insects. Bees are typically fuzzy and have rounder bodies, while wasps are smooth and slender. Bees feed on nectar and pollen, while wasps are predators and often feed on other insects.
Wasps can be territorial and will defend their nests if they feel threatened. However, not all wasps are aggressive towards humans. Social wasps, such as yellow jackets and paper wasps, are more likely to sting humans than solitary wasps. This is because social wasps live in large colonies and need to protect their queen and young. Solitary wasps, on the other hand, do not have a colony to protect and are less likely to sting humans.
Bees are typically less aggressive than wasps. They will usually only sting if they feel their hive is being threatened. When a bee stings, it leaves behind its stinger and dies shortly after. This is why it’s important to be careful around beehives and to call a professional if you need to remove one from your property.
If you encounter a wasp or bee in your backyard, it’s important to stay calm and avoid swatting at it. Swatting at a wasp or bee may make it feel threatened and increase the likelihood of getting stung. Instead, slowly back away and give the insect plenty of space. If you have a wasp nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional to have it removed.
In conclusion, while wasps can be aggressive if they feel threatened, not all species of wasps are likely to sting humans. Bees are typically less aggressive than wasps and will only sting if they feel their hive is being threatened. If you do encounter a wasp or bee in your backyard, remember to stay calm and give the insect plenty of space. By understanding the behavior of these insects, you can coexist with them peacefully in your backyard.