Summer in Southern Ontario brings sunshine and the buzz of stinging insects. Wasps and hornets, while beneficial to the ecosystem, and can also pose a threat. Understanding their differences is key to protecting yourself and your property. Here is a guide on Wasps vs. Hornets!
Wasps: Slender bodies, narrow waists, often brightly colored with yellow and black stripes.
Hornets: Larger and thicker-waisted than wasps. Typically black and white or black and yellow.
Nesting Habits:
Wasps: Build papery nests in various locations, including trees, shrubs, under eaves, and in attics or wall voids.
Hornets: Construct larger, enclosed paper nests, often shaped like a football. Typically found in trees, shrubs, or on buildings.
Wasps: Can be social (living in colonies) or solitary.
Hornets: Exclusively social insects, living in colonies.
Diet:
Wasps: Omnivores, feeding on nectar, fruit, and insects. Some are attracted to sugary foods and meats.
Hornets: Primarily prey on other insects, though they also consume nectar and fruit.
Aggression:
Wasps: Can be aggressive, especially when threatened or their nest is disturbed. Can sting multiple times.
Hornets: Generally less aggressive but can sting if provoked. Their stings are often more painful due to more venom.
Yellow Jackets: (social, aggressive, attracted to sweets and meats)
Paper Wasps: (social, build open nests, less aggressive than yellow jackets)
Mud Daubers: (solitary, build mud nests, rarely sting)
Hornets:
European Hornets (large, black and yellow, build enclosed nests, beneficial predators)
Bald-Faced Hornets (black and white, build large nests, can be aggressive)
Painful and can be dangerous for people with allergies. Multiple stings are a serious concern.
Nest Defense: Protective of their nests and can attack in swarms if disturbed.
Property Damage: Carpenter bees (a type of wasp) can damage wood structures.
Seal cracks and crevices in your home. Keep food and drinks covered outdoors. Avoid brightly colored clothing and strong perfumes. Be cautious when working near potential nesting areas.
Nest Removal: Leave nest removal to professionals.
Sting Treatment: Wash the sting site with soap and water. Apply a cold compress. Seek medical attention for severe symptoms. When to Call Pest Protection Plus If you have a wasp or hornet infestation, call Pest Protection Plus.
We offer: Safe and effective nest removal Preventative treatments Ongoing pest control services
Conclusion: Wasps and hornets are part of Southern Ontario’s ecosystem, but they can also be a nuisance and a danger. Understanding their differences and taking precautions is vital. If you encounter these insects, take steps to avoid stings. If you’re dealing with an infestation, contact Pest Protection Plus for professional help.
Additional Tips: Educate yourself about local wasps and hornets. Be observant outdoors. Stay calm if you encounter a wasp or hornet. Seek professional help for infestations or concerns. By following these tips, you can minimize risks and also enjoy your outdoor spaces.
Look at this video for more information:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C7-eaNA_2sI
Check out the services we offer: https://pestprotectionplus.com/pest-control/hornet-wasp-removal/
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