What Is the Difference Between Wasps and Hornets in O’Fallon, Illinois?
As we grow closer to summer, longer days and warmer weather will be quickly approaching. With that in mind, stinging insets are the first to come out of the woodwork and terrorize people. To date, these insects send more than 500,000 people to the ER each year. However, when looking into these different insects, wasps and hornets can be hard to differentiate. In this article, we’re sharing insights into these two other bugs and how to tell them apart.
Appearance:
When looking at a common wasp, they are mostly brown with some yellow color to them as well. These insects also have a thinner waist than a wasp, giving them the look of an hourglass. When looking at the hornets, they are much larger than a common wasp. Hornets do have the same colors as a wasp, but there are stripes on their bodies. Wasps will not show these stripes. Unlike the wasp, hornets also don’t have a small waist indicator.
Habits:
Wasps eat nectar and other also insects, including different caterpillars and flies. During the fall, wasps will find places indoors to spend the cold winter times. Then, when the weather is showing signs of warmth, they will start building their nests outside. On the other hand, Hornets feed on many different larger insects such as grasshoppers, flies, yellow jackets, and even honeybees. Other than insects, they are also known to eat tree sap, fruit, and their favorite; honeydew. They, just like the wasps, mostly come out when it’s warmer outside. However, unlike other stinging insects, they are most active during the nighttime.
Threats:
Wasps are not aggressive stinging insects and will only attack if they feel as though they are being disturbed. What really could set them off is if their nest is threatened. If you are stung, this can be painful while also causing risks for potential allergic reactions. On the other hand, Hornets have smooth stingers; they can sting as often as they so well, please. The difference between the two is that the hornet’s stinger carries venom, making each sting incredibly painful. These stings can also itch or swell for twenty-four hours. Hornets also do a huge deal of damage to trees and shrubs since they must strip their bark to get to the sap.
Prevention:
For both stinging insects, the best way to prevent infestation is to make sure that your home is less attractive to stinging insects. Before you trim your scrubs or pick any fruit, check your plants for nests to avoid getting stung by potential insects living in these areas. Be sure to seal all cracks in your home with the appropriate sealant. You should also try to repair any tears in screens and keep doors closed to prevent these stinging insects from entering your home. Another way to prevent them from coming into your home is by keeping your food covered, especially when outdoors. While spending time outside, you should be avoiding wearing any heavy fragrances and attempt to opt for unscented hygienic products. You also should wear shoes that cover your feet to protect yourself from potentially being stung.
With either of these two stinging insects, being in contact with them is not a pleasant experience. If you have noticed either of these bugs around your home, we advise you not to panic. At IMEL, we have highly trained specialists here to help you in these situations. We can take care of the problem and leave you with a pest-free home.
