At Sparta Pest Control, we know how unsettling it can be to see a swarm of flying insects around your home, garden or office. If you’re noticing a large number of wasps in particular, there’s a good chance a nest is nearby. These pests can be more than just annoying. They can also pose a real risk if not dealt with properly. It is important to know which flying insect you are dealing with as wasps, hornets and bees can easily be mistaken for one another. Bees play an important part in our ecosystem and are not pests so, let’s break down the differences between wasps, hornets and bees so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
What Do They Look Like?
Wasps are generally slim with a narrow waist, smooth bodies and bright yellow and black markings. They look sleek and shiny and are often mistaken for bees at a quick glance.
Hornets, a type of wasp, are larger and more robust. The European hornet, which we commonly deal with, has a reddish-brown head and thorax, with yellow and black striped abdomens.
Bees, on the other hand, are usually rounder and hairier, which helps them collect pollen. Honey bees are smaller than bumblebees, and have a more golden-brown colour.
What Do Their Nests Look Like?
Wasp nests are made from a grey paper-like substance. Queen wasps emerge from hibernation in the spring and begin building their nests using chewed wood and saliva. As the summer progresses, the nest grows quickly, especially with help from hundreds of worker wasps. At peak activity, a single nest can produce up to 300 eggs daily and support up to 5,000 adult wasps.
Wasp nest
Hornet nests are similar but usually larger. They are often found in tree hollows, attics or wall cavities. European hornets prefer more sheltered locations and their nests also have a papery texture, made from the same materials as wasp nests.
Hornet nest
Bee nests vary depending on the type. Honey bees create waxy hives with neatly arranged hexagonal cells, usually in tree hollows or wall voids. Bumblebees prefer underground burrows or compost heaps and have much smaller nests.
Bee nest
Commonality and Key Differences
One of the main differences between these insects is their behaviour.
- Wasps can be aggressive, especially in late summer when their food sources change. They are scavengers and are drawn to sugary drinks and human food. Wasps can sting multiple times, which makes them a bigger risk if they feel threatened.
- Hornets are less aggressive than wasps, but they may still sting you repeatedly to defend their nest against any threat. Their sting is particularly painful due to the amount of venom they inject.
- Bees, particularly honey bees, are far less aggressive. They will only sting if provoked and lose their stinger after one sting, which leads to their death. They play a vital role in pollination and are legally protected and are not considered to be pests.
We tend to deal with two types of wasps: the common wasp and the German wasp, along with the European hornet. As for honey bees, we don’t treat them as they’re not considered pests.
If you suspect you have a honey bee nest, we recommend contacting your local beekeepers who can safely relocate the colony without harm. The British BeeKeepers Association website has lots of useful information, you can also use the local beekeeper finder tool.
Fun Facts
- Wasps are pests, but they help control other insect populations by hunting caterpillars and flies.
- A single hornet can kill many insects in one day, including other wasps.
- Bees can recognise human faces. Studies have shown that honey bees can remember and differentiate between human faces using their pattern recognition skills.
- A wasp colony dies off in the winter, but a new queen hibernates and starts the whole process again in spring.
How We Handle Wasp and Hornet Nest Removal in Enfield
If you’re searching for professional wasp nest removal in Enfield or hornet pest control treatment in Enfield, you’re in the right place.
Our pest control process involves a thorough inspection followed by the application of a specialist insecticide at the entrance of the nest. This ensures that wasps or hornets returning to the nest become contaminated with the powder or liquid, effectively spreading it throughout the colony.
The insecticide we use is biodegradable, meaning it breaks down naturally and has a low environmental impact. We make every effort to ensure the safety of your family, pets and local wildlife while effectively resolving the issue.
Why Choose Sparta Pest Control?
Every pest situation is different, and we treat it as such. Our technicians are trained to assess and handle each infestation based on its unique challenges. Whether it’s a small nest in your shed or a large colony in your loft, we have the tools and expertise to get the job done quickly and safely.
With years of experience and the latest in wasp and hornet control technology, we’re fully equipped to deal with any situation. We serve both residential and commercial properties across Enfield and the surrounding areas.
Don’t Wait Until It Gets Worse
If you think you have a wasp or hornet problem, don’t ignore it. These insects can multiply quickly and pose a health risk, especially to those with allergies.
Contact Sparta Pest Control today for fast, safe and professional wasp pest control in Enfield or hornet nest removal in Enfield. Let us handle the pests so you can get back to enjoying your space in peace.
Call us now or fill out our online form to book your inspection.
