Pest Library
How to identify wasps & hornets
Wasps and hornets become most active and aggressive in late summer, when colonies peak. Because they can sting repeatedly and defend their nests fiercely, identifying the species and locating the nest safely matters β especially for anyone with a sting allergy.
What they look like
- βPaper wasps β slender, with long legs that dangle in flight; build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves and railings.
- βYellowjackets β bright yellow-and-black, shorter and stockier; nest in the ground, wall voids, and attics, and are the most aggressive scavengers around food.
- βBald-faced hornets β larger, black with white markings; build big, enclosed grey "paper" nests in trees, shrubs and on buildings.
- βUnlike fuzzy, rounded bees, wasps and hornets have smooth, narrow-waisted bodies and are far more likely to sting repeatedly.
Signs of an infestation
- βSteady wasp traffic to and from a single spot on the house, a tree, or the ground.
- βA visible nest β umbrella-shaped, enclosed grey paper, or a hole with insects coming and going.
- βIncreased activity around garbage bins, patios, and food or drinks in late summer.
- βBuzzing or scratching sounds inside a wall or ceiling void.
Why professional treatment matters
Disturbing a nest provokes the colony to swarm and sting, and hidden nests in walls or underground are especially risky to approach. We remove nests using proper protective equipment and treatment, then advise on preventing them from rebuilding in the same spot β without putting your family at risk of stings.
See our Wasp & Hornet Removal service βFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a wasp, a hornet and a bee?βΎ
Bees are rounder and fuzzy and are important pollinators we avoid harming where possible. Wasps and hornets have smooth, narrow bodies and can sting repeatedly. Hornets are essentially a large type of wasp that builds enclosed paper nests.
Is it safe to remove a wasp nest myself?βΎ
It is risky. Wasps and hornets defend their nest aggressively and can sting many times, and nests hidden in walls or in the ground are easy to disturb by accident. Professional removal with proper protection is much safer, particularly for anyone with an allergy.
When are wasps most dangerous?βΎ
Late summer into early fall, when colonies are largest and food is scarcer, making wasps more aggressive around people and food. Treating a nest earlier in the season, when the colony is small, is safer and easier.
Get Started
Think you have wasps & hornets?
Book a same-day inspection β we'll confirm what it is and tell you exactly what it takes to resolve it.