Most bees, wasps & hornets that are of concern to the homeowner are social insects. There are numerous other solitary species in the world that are usually parasitic to a particular insect, plant or animal. We won’t be discussing those. Many people are not aware of the number of people that can have an allergic, sometimes life threatening, reaction to Bee, Wasp or Hornet venom. About 40 people die each year from Bee and Wasp stings. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist for information on how to react should one of your family or friends have such a reaction. Especially if you have young children and their friends visit your yard. Please check HOMEOWNER HINTS for some thoughts.
Yellowjackets-are probably the most widely known and distributed bee [they are actually in the wasp family]. Although they do perform some insect control their habit of nesting in the ground and in wall voids, brings them in conflict with humans. Most species will eat many human foods and can be a real nuisance when we barbecue. Having from 1000 to 3000 yellowjackets living in or around your home can be quite disconcerting, as well as dangerous.
Paper Wasps-are a very common minor pest for the homeowner, building their open faced nests all around our homes. Their colony size is nowhere near yellowjackets, but the number of nests is significantly more numerous. It’s not rare that a home can have 5 to 10 nests at one time on the structure.
Bald Faced Hornets-are not as prevalent as the two species above. However, I have found this pest much more aggressive than either of the above, especially the workers whose job it is to guard the hive. I personally have been attacked before I came within eight foot of the nest. Be careful if you have these. They normally build a hanging gray paper nest in a tree or hanging from a soffit. At first glance they look black and white, with white on their face and tail.