What are the different types of wasp?

 

You may have wondered, what exactly is a wasp? How can you tell a wasp from a hornet? With so many flying insect species, it can often be difficult to tell your wasp from your bee.

 

Here is a guide to help you identify the stinging insects in your garden!

 

This is especially important to ensure you use the correct nest removal method for the correct wasp specie.

 

Wasps are distinctive by building nests near human structures. They use their mandibles to scrape and chew up wood to form a pulpy, paper substance to create their nests.

 

There are 3 types of wasp commonly encountered by pest control teams:

 

1. Hornets

 

 

Hornets are one of the largest wasps you will encounter. In Europe, hornets are brown with orange markings. They tend to build their nests in natural cavities like tree stumps or in cavities within buildings.

 

2. Paper Wasps

 

 

Although paper wasps have a similar brown and yellow marking to hornets, they are identifiable by their long legs.

 

3. Yellow Jackets

 

 

Yellow jackets have a black and yellow striped abdomen. They build nests with a papery covering and they are mainly found in cavities in the ground.

 

Many people confuse honey bees with yellow jacket wasps. However, one way that you can truly tell if an insect is a wasp, is by its temperament. Wasps are very territorial and will defend their nests fiercely. They also tend to swarm and attack in large numbers.

 

For more information on the different types of wasps or for advice on a wasp nest on your property, get in contact with The Wasp Guys today!