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Bumblebees

Bumblebee Identification

What Do Bumblebees Look Like?

Bumblebees are robust, hairy bees with a distinctive appearance. They typically measure around ¾ to 1 inch in length. Bumblebees have round bodies covered in dense hair, which can vary in coloration from black and yellow to orange or even red, depending on the species. Their bodies are segmented, with a plump thorax and abdomen. Bumblebees have large compound eyes and long antennae. They also have two pairs of wings, with the hind wings smaller than the front wings.

Unsure which type of stinging insect you are dealing with? We can help you to identify common bee, wasp & hornet species.

Signs of a Bumblebee Infestation

Signs of a bumblebee infestation may include:

Increased bee activity: Increase in the number of bumblebees flying around a particular area.
Presence of nests: Bumblebee nests are typically located underground in abandoned burrows or other sheltered locations such as compost piles or under decks.
Buzzing sounds: Audible buzzing sounds near the nest site as bumblebees enter and exit.
Pollen and wax residue: Cumulative of pollen and wax residue around nest entrances or nearby vegetation.
Observation of worker bees foraging for pollen and nectar in the vicinity.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Stings

Where Do Bumblebees Live?

Bumblebee colonies are small, containing a dozen to a few hundred workers. Most bumblebees nest in the ground, using deserted rodent burrows and shallow cavities excavated beneath patio stones, landscaping timber, piles of compost, and within dense patches of grass. Above ground, they will occupy abandoned bird nests and fiberglass-insulated structural voids associated with outside walls, patio roofing, and decks.

Diet of a Bumblebee

Bumblebees primarily feed on nectar and pollen obtained from flowers. Nectar serves as their primary source of carbohydrates, providing energy for flight and other activities. Pollen, rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, is collected to feed developing larvae and nourish adult bees. Bumblebees use their long proboscis to access nectar deep within flowers, while pollen collects on their bodies as they forage. The diet is essential for their survival and reproduction.

Life Cycle of a Bumblebee

The life cycle of a bumblebee begins when a mated queen emerges from hibernation in spring to establish a new colony. She constructs a small nest and lays eggs, which hatch into larvae. The queen feeds and cares for the larvae until they pupate. After pupation, they emerge as sterile female workers, which then take over nest-building and foraging duties. Males and new queens are produced later in the season.

Do Bumblebees Sting?

Bumblebees are peaceful insects and only sting when provoked. Most stings happen when their nest is disturbed. Only female bumblebees sting and unlike honey bees, they can sting more than once. Bumblebees can sting multiple times, but they do not form swarms like honey bees. The pain from a bumblebee sting is less painful than a honey bee sting, however, a sting can be dangerous if it occurs on the head or neck, or if an individual is allergic to their venom.
Because bumblebees will sting when threatened, homeowners are advised to seek out a professional bee removal service rather than try to address the infestation themselves.

Are Bumblebees Dangerous?

Bumblebees are generally not considered dangerous to humans. They are docile insects that are not aggressive unless provoked or their nest is threatened. Bumblebees are solitary foragers and typically only sting in self-defense. Their sting is less potent than that of some other stinging insects like honey bees or wasps, and most people experience only minor pain and swelling if stung.

Bumblebee Prevention Tips

To prevent issues with bumblebees:

Seal openings: Seal cracks, gaps, and openings in buildings to prevent bumblebees from nesting indoors.
Trim vegetation: Keep vegetation well-maintained to discourage nesting in yard areas.
Avoid disturbance: If a bumblebee nest is discovered, avoid disturbing it to prevent defensive behavior.
Limit attractive features: Minimize floral displays in areas where bumblebee presence is unwanted.

Seek help from our wasp and bee pest control professionals if bumblebee activity becomes problematic.

FAQs

What is So Special About Bumblebees?

Bumblebees are notable for their unique characteristics and important ecological roles. They are efficient pollinators, using a technique called “buzz pollination” to extract pollen from certain flowers, which is crucial for the reproduction of many plant species, including some crops. Bumblebees are also social insects, living in colonies with a queen and workers. Their large size and robust nature make them effective pollinators across diverse habitats, making them vital to ecosystems and agriculture.

Why Do Bumblebees Fly Around You?

Bumblebees may fly around humans for several reasons:
Curiosity: Bumblebees are curious insects and may investigate their surroundings, including humans, out of curiosity.
Flower scent: Bumblebees are attracted to floral scents, and if you are wearing fragrances or floral-patterned clothing, they may mistake you for a flower.
Food: If you are eating or drinking sweet foods outdoors, bumblebees may be attracted to the scent and hover around you in search of food.
Bumblebees are generally harmless and mean no harm when flying near humans.

Are Bumblebees a Problem?

Bumblebees are not typically considered a problem unless their presence poses a threat or inconvenience in specific situations. While they are beneficial pollinators and generally not aggressive towards humans, large numbers of bumblebees nesting near high-traffic areas or within structures may be considered problematic. Individuals with allergies to bee stings may need to take precautions around bumblebees – and seek medical attention.

Cicada Killer Wasps

Cicada Killer Wasp Identification

What Do Cicada Killer Wasps Look Like?

Cicada killer wasps (Sphecius speciosus) are large, solitary wasps known for their distinctive appearance. They typically measure around 1.5 to 2 inches in length, making them one of the largest wasps in North America. Cicada killers have a robust body with a black abdomen marked with yellow or orange bands. Their thorax is reddish-brown with yellow markings, and their wings are clear with brown veins. Male cicada killers have a yellow face with green eyes, while females have a black face with green eyes.

Unsure whether you are on deadline with a Cicada Killer Wasp? We can help you to identify common bee, wasp & hornet species.

Signs of a Cicada Killer Wasp Infestation

Cicada killer wasps appear as adults in late June or July and are mostly seen visiting flowers or digging burrows in sandy or light soil. The cicada killer wasp nests in the ground near cicada populations. Frequently, dozens of their burrows are located on lawns and on golf courses. A pile of soil often surrounds the entrance. The male wasp flies guard duty over the lawn, chasing away potential predators.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Stings

Where Do Cicada Killer Wasps Live?

Cicada killer wasps are commonly found throughout North America, primarily in the eastern United States and parts of the Midwest. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including suburban areas, meadows, and open fields. Cicada killers prefer well-drained, sandy soils in sunny locations. They often nest in burrows dug into the ground, particularly in areas with sparse vegetation. These burrows can be found in lawns, gardens, along sidewalks, and near structures such as buildings or fences.

Diet of a Cicada Killer Wasps

Cicada killer wasps are carnivorous insects that primarily feed on cicadas. Adult cicada killers primarily feed on flower nectar, which provides them with energy for flight and other activities. However, female cicada killers also hunt cicadas to provision their nests for their larvae. They capture cicadas in flight or on vegetation using their powerful mandibles and carry them back to their burrows. Once inside the burrow, the female lays an egg on the paralyzed cicada, providing a food source for the developing larva when it hatches.

Life Cycle of a Cicada Killer Wasps

The life cycle of a cicada killer wasp begins when a mated female excavates a burrow in well-drained soil, typically in late spring or early summer. She provisions the burrow with paralyzed cicadas, laying a single egg on each cicada. After hatching, the larva feeds on the cicada until fully developed. It then pupates within a cocoon inside the burrow. In late summer or early fall, the adult wasp emerges from the burrow, and the cycle begins anew.

Do Cicada Killer Wasps Sting?

Unlike other wasp species, cicada killers are not very aggressive and rarely sting humans or pets unless they are disturbed. Males are aggressive and territorial but do not possess a stinger. A sting from a cicada killer wasp can be painful and their venom may cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Are Cicada Killer Wasps Dangerous?

Cicada killer wasps are generally not considered dangerous to humans. While they are large and intimidating, they are solitary insects and not aggressive unless provoked. Male cicada killers do not have stingers, and females are not inclined to sting unless they feel threatened or their nest is disturbed. Their sting is mild and is primarily used to subdue prey.

Our professional wasp and bee exterminators can help you if you have an infestation problem

Cicada Killer Wasp Prevention Tips

To prevent cicada killer wasps:

Maintain a well-manicured lawn with dense vegetation to discourage nesting.
Fill in bare patches of soil and address drainage issues to reduce suitable nesting sites.
Avoid planting flowering plants that attract adult cicada killers.
Keep outdoor lights off at night, as they may attract cicada killers.
Regularly inspect your property for signs of burrow activity and address them promptly.
Contact the professionals! Contact our professional wasp and bee exterminators today to help manage an infestation.

FAQs

What Do Cicada Killer Wasps Do?

Cicada killer wasps are solitary wasps known for hunting cicadas. Cicada killer wasps play a role in controlling cicada populations and contribute to the ecosystem as pollinators.

Are Cicada Killers Wasps Aggressive?

Cicada killer wasps are not typically aggressive towards humans. While large and may appear intimidating, they are solitary insects and do not defend their nests as aggressively as social wasp species.

Do Cicada Killer Wasps Come Back Every Year?

Yes, cicada killer wasps can typically return yearly, although individual wasps have a relatively short lifespan. While the individual wasps may not survive through the winter, new generations of cicada killers continue the cycle in subsequent years, with new females establishing nests and continuing the population.

European Hornets

European Hornet Identification

What Do European Hornets Look Like?

European hornets are large insects with a distinct appearance. They typically measure about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. Their bodies are predominantly reddish-brown with yellow or orange markings. They have six legs and two pairs of wings, with the hind wings smaller than the front wings. Their heads are yellow with large, reddish-brown eyes, and they have strong mandibles for capturing prey. European hornets also have a characteristic narrow waist and a noticeable thorax.

Unsure? We can help you to identify common bee, wasp & hornet species.

Signs of a European Hornet Infestation

European hornets are social wasps that normally build their nests in hollow trees, but will also utilize wall voids and attics of houses. Their nests will rarely appear freely suspended like the football-shaped bald-faced hornet nests. European hornet nests are generally located 6 feet or more above ground, and will occasionally be constructed on the sides of homes. In some instances, a portion of the gray, papery nest extends outside the cavity or void. An average hornet nest will have 200 to 400 workers by late summer and they can become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Stings

Where Do European Hornets Live?

European hornets are native to Europe but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. They typically inhabit forested areas, woodlands, and rural areas but can also be found in suburban and urban environments. European hornets build their nests in sheltered locations such as hollow trees, wall voids, attics, or even underground. They prefer areas with access to water sources and are often attracted to outdoor lights at night, where they hunt for prey.

Diet of a European Hornets

European hornets are primarily carnivorous and feed on a variety of insects, including beetles, flies, caterpillars, and other small arthropods. They are also known to scavenge for protein-rich foods such as carrion and occasionally feed on tree sap and fruit juices. Adults capture prey with their powerful mandibles and carry it back to the nest to feed their developing larvae.

Life Cycle of a European Hornets

The life cycle of European hornets begins when a mated queen emerges from hibernation in spring to establish a new colony. She constructs a small nest and lays eggs, which hatch into larvae. The queen feeds and cares for the larvae until they pupate. After pupation, they emerge as sterile female workers, which then take over nest-building and foraging duties. Throughout the summer, the colony grows in size. In fall, new queens and males are produced, mating occurs, and fertilized queens overwinter to start new colonies the following spring.

Do European Hornets Sting?

Although large and fierce-looking, European hornets will not sting unless threatened and tend to leave people alone. However, this hornet is capable of stinging multiple times, and those who may be allergic to their venom should seek medical attention when stung. European hornets can cause issues for homeowners by nesting in barns, hollow trees in yards, wall voids, or attics. When food becomes scarce in late summer, they look for sugary foods and may destroy fruit trees. These hornets are attracted to porch lights at night and will sometimes bang up against windows, causing many a distressed homeowner. If a European hornet nest is suspected on your property, it is always best to contact a professional hornet control expert.

Are European Hornets Dangerous?

European hornets can be considered dangerous due to their ability to sting and the potential for allergic reactions. While they are not typically aggressive, they will defend their nests if threatened, which can result in painful stings. Their venom contains a mixture of toxins that can cause pain, swelling, and in some cases, allergic reactions ranging from mild to severe. It’s essential to exercise caution around European hornet nests and seek our professional wasp and bee pest removal if necessary.

European Hornet Prevention Tips

To prevent European hornets from nesting near your home:

Seal cracks and openings in walls, roofs, and windows to prevent entry.
Keep outdoor lights off at night, as they can attract hornets.
Avoid leaving food and sweet beverages uncovered, as they may attract hornets.
Regularly inspect your property for signs of hornet activity, such as nests or buzzing sounds.
Consider planting insect-repellent plants around your property, such as mint or marigolds.
If you encounter a nest, keep your distance and contact our professional wasp and bee pest control service for safe removal.

FAQs

Are European Hornets in the US?

Yes, European hornets (Vespa crabro) are present in the United States. They were introduced to North America in the 1800s and have since become established in various regions, particularly in the eastern United States. European hornets are considered invasive in North America and can be found in forested areas, suburban neighborhoods, and urban environments. They are larger than many native hornet species and are known for their distinctive appearance and aggressive defense of their nests.

Are European Hornets Gentle?

European hornets are generally not aggressive unless their nest is threatened or disturbed. While they may exhibit defensive behavior if provoked, they are not as aggressive as some other hornet species. European hornets are primarily focused on foraging for food and caring for their colony, rather than seeking out conflicts with humans. With proper respect and caution, interactions with European hornets can often be peaceful, and they may even be considered beneficial for their role in controlling insect populations.

What is the Difference Between a killer Hornet and a European Hornet?

The “killer hornet” typically refers to the Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), whereas the European hornet (Vespa crabro) is a different species native to Europe and parts of Asia. The Asian giant hornet is significantly larger than the European hornet, with a body length of up to 2 inches compared to the European hornet’s 1 to 1.5 inches. Additionally, Asian giant hornets have a more aggressive reputation and are known for their potent sting, whereas European hornets are generally less aggressive and pose less of a threat to humans.

Fox Squirrel

Fox Squirrels in North Carolina

Fox squirrels are found throughout the eastern and central United States and have also been introduced into cities in the western U.S. Fox squirrels spend most of their time in trees during the day, foraging for food. These squirrels are omnivores, eating everything from plant matter to insects and birds. Like other tree squirrels, fox squirrels will enter homes, building nests in attics, walls, chimneys, rooflines, and inside garages. Fox squirrels carry diseases such as tularemia and ringworm that are transmissible to people.

Fox Squirrel Habitat

Fox squirrels prefer open, savannah-like habitats, where trees are widely spaced and the understory is open. Fox squirrels need large trees with cavities or holes in them for building nests to raise their young. They are most common in oak-hickory forests but are also found in live oak, mangrove swamps, and pine forests. Because of this habitat preference, fox squirrels do well in urban and suburban settings. These pests will enter homes and attics, causing damage to wiring, gardens, and lawns.

Fox Squirrel Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Fox squirrels sometimes cause damage around homes and gardens, where they feed on immature and mature nuts, fruit, and a variety of other plants. During the fall, squirrels dig holes in gardens or in turf where they bury nuts or other seeds. This storing of food, which they may or may not ever retrieve, raises havoc in the garden and tears up a well-groomed lawn. Squirrels sometimes gnaw on telephone cables and may chew their way into wooden buildings or invade attics through gaps or broken vent screens. They also have a tendency to strip bark to feed on the juicy inner bark layer (cambium), causing injury to trees. If you are having an issue with fox squirrels, it is best to consult a professional wildlife control company for removal.

Ground Beetle

Ground Beetles in North Carolina

Ground beetles make up one of the largest groups of beetles in North America, with more than 2600 species. Most ground beetles are shiny, black or brown and iridescent, and are sometimes confused with cockroaches. Both are dark in color and move quickly, however, ground beetles are harmless, while cockroaches may create larger issues. Ground beetles are very common outdoor insects that occasionally become pests by wandering into houses and buildings by mistake.

Because there are many different types of beetles in North Carolina, they can be difficult to distinguish, however our common beetle species can help with this.

Ground Beetle Habitat

Ground beetles are commonly found outdoors under objects such as wood, logs, rock, and other debris on the ground. During the summer, in many parts of the country, ground beetles appear in tremendous numbers. They feed mostly at night and are attracted to porch lights and other exterior lights. Ground beetles can become an annoyance by crawling into homes and buildings through small cracks or openings, or through open doorways and windows. Once inside, they can be found in hidden, damp areas in the basement or under boxes or other objects on the floor.

Why do Ground Beetles Come into Your House?

Ground Beetles may enter homes accidentally while searching for prey or shelter, especially during extreme weather conditions like heavy rains or drought. They are attracted to areas with ample food sources, such as other insects, and often wander into homes through cracks and gaps in the foundation or doors.

Ground Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Ground beetles do not damage household structures or furniture and are harmless to people and pets. When exposed, ground beetles move quickly to find shelter but rarely fly. Outdoors, are actually considered beneficial because they feed on insect larvae. However, during summer, ground beetle infestations inside a home or commercial building can be overwhelming for any property owner. Although certain species have been known to release odorous secretions when threatened, none will bite or attack humans.

If you are dealing with a ground beetle infestation, always contact your local beetle exterminators.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do Ground Beetles Come into the House?

Ground Beetles typically enter houses accidentally while searching for prey or due to changes in outdoor conditions. They might be driven inside by heavy rains, drought, or in search of food. These beetles often enter through small openings, cracks, or gaps in buildings.

Why Are Ground Beetles Good for the Garden?

Ground Beetles are beneficial in gardens due to their predatory nature. They feed on a variety of garden pests, including slugs, snails, cutworms, aphids, and caterpillars, helping to naturally control these populations without the need for chemical pesticides.

How Do I Attract Ground Beetles to My Garden?

To attract Ground Beetles to your garden, create a habitat they prefer. This includes having areas with moist soil, mulch, and leaving some leaf litter or logs where they can find shelter. Avoiding broad-spectrum pesticides will also help maintain a healthy population of these beneficial beetles.

What is the Most Common Ground Beetle?

One of the most common and widely recognized Ground Beetles is the genus Carabus. These beetles are known for their large size, metallic sheen, and voracious appetite for garden pests. Their presence is often a sign of a healthy, balanced garden ecosystem.

German Cockroaches

German Cockroach Identification

German Cockroaches in North Carolina

The German cockroach is distributed worldwide and is the most prevalent species in and around homes, apartments, supermarkets, food processing plants, and restaurants. Ships, especially cruise ships and naval vessels can also be heavily infested. These roaches prefer warm humid environments and infestations are frequently found in residential and commercial kitchen environments, and bathrooms. When infestations are large, they can spread to other parts of a building. This species reproduces the fastest of the common pest cockroaches—a single female and her offspring can produce over 30,000 offspring in a year.

German Cockroach Habitat

German cockroaches are found primarily in kitchens, bathrooms, or other areas where daily access to water is available. If sanitation is poor, the German cockroach can successfully expand its normal habitat to include all portions of a structure where adequate food, water, and shelter exist. German cockroaches prefer to hide in wooden and paper materials, as well as electrical equipment. These roaches can also be found hiding in cabinets, drawers, up under sinks, and inside heat-producing appliances like dishwashers, microwaves, and coffee makers.

What Causes German Roaches in Your House?

German cockroaches enter homes in search of food, water, and shelter. They often hitch rides on grocery bags, boxes, and used appliances. Poor sanitation, clutter, and unsealed entry points like cracks and crevices also contribute to infestations. They are particularly drawn to crumbs, spills, and leftovers in kitchens, as well as standing water and leaky pipes.

German Cockroach Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

German cockroaches are not known to bite humans, however, foraging cockroaches are vectors of disease, depositing germs or bacteria in areas they inhabit. German cockroaches can also cause allergic reactions due to the insects leaving fecal matter and cast skins around the home, causing skin rashes, watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma. In addition to spreading disease, German cockroach infestations may cause human psychological stress. With the social stigma attached to having cockroaches in your home, homeowners tend to alter their behavior by entertaining less often and avoiding kitchen and bathroom areas at night for fear of encountering the pest.

Is the German Cockroach Harmful?

Yes, German cockroaches are harmful. They are known to carry various pathogens, including bacteria that can cause food poisoning, dysentery, and other illnesses. Their droppings, shed skins, and saliva can also trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks, particularly in children.

German cockroaches can multiply rapidly, which means that a cockroach infestation should be addressed immediately by a professional cockroach exterminator.

FAQS

Are German Cockroaches Hard to Get Rid of?

Yes, German cockroaches are notoriously difficult to eliminate. Their rapid reproduction rate and ability to hide in small, inaccessible places make them a challenging pest to control. Professional pest management is often required to effectively eradicate an infestation and prevent recurrence. That’s where our expert team at Bug Out can help!

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