Bees and wasps are common throughout the Treasure Valley and play very different roles in our local ecosystem. While both insects belong to the order Hymenoptera, their behaviors, nesting habits, and interactions with people are significantly different. Understanding these differences helps homeowners stay safe while also knowing when an issue requires attention.
This guide breaks down the key facts about bees and wasps, how to identify them, how they behave, and what to do if they become a nuisance around your property.
Bees vs. Wasps: What’s the Difference?
Although bees and wasps may look somewhat similar at a distance, their behaviors and physical traits are very different.
Bees
- Typically fuzzy with thicker bodies
- Feed on nectar and pollen
- Are essential pollinators for local gardens and crops
- Generally non-aggressive unless defending their hive
- Most honeybees can sting once; the stinger detaches
Bees communicate through vibration and the well-known “waggle dance,” which helps other bees locate food sources. Their nests are made from wax produced by the colony.
Wasps
- Smooth, slender bodies with narrow waists
- Feed on insects, sweets, and proteins
- Much more territorial and quick to defend their nests
- Capable of stinging multiple times
- Build papery nests made from chewed plant fibers
Yellow jackets, hornets, and paper wasps are the most common species found around homes in the Boise, Meridian, and Nampa areas.
Are All Bees and Wasps Social?
Unlike the myth that “all bees are social and all wasps are solitary,” both groups actually include social and solitary species. Honeybees and yellow jacket wasps form large colonies, while many types of ground bees and solitary wasps nest alone.
Some key differences include:
- Honeybees – large colonies, wax hives, highly structured social system.
- Paper wasps – smaller colonies, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves.
- Solitary wasps – create individual nests in soil or small cavities.
Wasp Identification Guide
Wasps vary widely in color and size depending on their species. Here’s how to identify the most common types seen in the Treasure Valley:
Yellow Jackets
- Bright yellow and black bodies
- Aggressive defenders of underground or structural nests
- Often the culprit when homeowners encounter stings outdoors
Paper Wasps
- Long legs that hang while flying
- Brownish with yellow or reddish markings
- Build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves or structures
Hornets
- Larger, more robust than yellow jackets
- Black, white, or reddish markings
- Construct large enclosed nests in trees or structures
Wasps are sometimes mistaken for ants or bees. Look for:
- Narrow waist: indicates a wasp
- Fuzziness: suggests a bee
- Elbowed antennae with wings: can indicate either wasps or ants — check the waist shape to be sure
How Long Do Bee and Wasp Stings Last?
Sting reactions vary depending on the insect type, location of the sting, and individual sensitivity.
- Honeybee stings: usually cause sharp pain for 15–30 minutes, with lingering soreness or swelling for several hours. The stinger must be removed.
- Paper wasp stings: cause burning and swelling, often lasting 10 minutes to an hour.
- Hornet stings: typically more painful and may cause swelling for several hours.
Most stings are mild, but individuals with allergies may experience swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives. In those cases, immediate medical attention is required.
How to Reduce Bees and Wasps Around Your Home
Most bees are beneficial and should only be removed if located in an unsafe place. Wasps, however, can become aggressive around entry points, outdoor living areas, or children’s play spaces.
1. Locate Nests Early
Check eaves, decks, trees, utility boxes, and wall voids for early-stage nest building in spring and early summer.
2. Remove Food Sources
- Cover trash cans tightly
- Clean up fruit from trees quickly
- Avoid leaving sugary drinks or meat outdoors
3. Seal Structural Gaps
Small cracks or gaps around siding, vents, or soffits can allow wasps to start nests inside walls or attic spaces.
4. Avoid DIY Removal of Active Nests
Bee and wasp removal can be dangerous — especially with yellow jackets or hornets. If a nest is active, hidden, or located where people frequently gather, professional help is recommended.
For homeowners in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Kuna, or Caldwell dealing with persistent bee or wasp issues, licensed pest control professionals can identify the species, remove nests safely, and help prevent future activity.