Quick Answer: What’s the Difference Between Bees and Wasps?

Bees are typically fuzzier, feed on nectar/pollen, and are important pollinators. Wasps are smoother, more slender, and are usually more defensive around nests. Honeybees often sting once (leaving a stinger behind), while many wasps—like yellow jackets—can sting multiple times.

In Treasure Valley neighborhoods, most “yard sting” incidents involve yellow jackets or paper wasps, while bees are often best left alone unless they’re nesting in a risky spot.

Key Facts About Bees and Wasps

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 different in ways that matter for safety and control.

Bees

Often fuzzy or “hairy,” with thicker bodies
Feed on nectar and pollen
Are essential pollinators for gardens, flowers, and crops
Usually non-aggressive unless defending a hive or being handled
Honeybees typically sting once; the stinger can detach and remain in the skin

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 a narrow “waist”
Feed on insects plus sweets and proteins (especially late summer)
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 among the most common species found around homes in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and surrounding communities.

Are All Bees and Wasps Social?

Unlike the myth that “all bees are social and all wasps are solitary,” both groups include social and solitary species. Honeybees and yellow jackets form colonies, while many ground-nesting bees and many wasps nest alone.

Common examples:

Honeybees — large colonies; wax hives; structured social system
Paper wasps — smaller colonies; open “umbrella” nests under eaves
Solitary wasps — individual nests in soil or small cavities; often help control other insects

Wasp Identification Guide

Wasps vary in color and size depending on 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
Commonly involved in outdoor stings near patios, trash, and food

Paper Wasps

Long legs that hang down while flying
Brownish with yellow or reddish markings
Build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, patio covers, and ledges

Hornets

Larger and more robust than many other wasps
Black/white or reddish markings depending on species
Construct large enclosed paper nests in trees, shrubs, or structures

Quick ID tips when you’re not sure what you’re seeing:

Narrow waist + smooth body usually indicates a wasp
Fuzzier body suggests a bee
Ant-like shape with wings could be a flying ant (check for elbowed antennae and a very pinched waist)

How Long Do Bee and Wasp Stings Last?

Sting reactions vary based on insect type, sting location, and individual sensitivity. Many stings cause short-term pain and localized swelling that improves over hours to a day or two.

Honeybee stings: sharp pain followed by swelling; the stinger should be removed promptly if present.
Paper wasp stings: burning pain and swelling that may last from minutes to hours.
Hornet/yellow jacket stings: often more painful and can cause noticeable swelling for several hours.

Important: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as widespread hives, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If those symptoms occur, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

How to Reduce Bees and Wasps Around Your Home

Most bees are beneficial and should only be removed when they’re nesting in an unsafe location. Wasps, however, can become aggressive around entry points, outdoor living areas, and children’s play spaces.

1. Locate Nests Early

In spring and early summer, check eaves, decks, trees, sheds, utility boxes, and wall voids for early nest building. Smaller nests are generally easier to address than late-season colonies.

2. Remove Food Sources

Keep trash lids tight and rinse sticky cans/bottles before disposal
Pick up fallen fruit quickly
Cover sugary drinks and keep meat/food covered outdoors

3. Seal Structural Gaps

Small cracks and gaps around siding, vents, soffits, and trim can allow wasps to start nests inside walls or attic spaces. Basic sealing and repair reduces hidden nesting opportunities.

4. Avoid DIY Removal of Active Nests

Bee and wasp removal can be dangerous—especially with yellow jackets and 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, a licensed pest control professional can identify the species, remove nests safely, and help reduce future activity.