Identifying the type of bees on your property—such as honey bees, bumblebees, carpenter bees, or wasps—helps determine the safest and most effective removal method. Each species behaves differently and requires a tailored approach from professional bee removal experts.
Not all bees are the same. While many people use “bees” as a catch-all term, different species have distinct behaviors, nesting habits, and levels of aggression. Before taking action, it’s helpful to know what kind of insect you’re dealing with.
1. Honey Bees
Honey bees are small, golden-brown, and slightly fuzzy. They’re typically about half an inch long and have black stripes on their abdomen. Honey bees live in large, highly organized colonies and often nest inside walls, attics, or tree cavities.
Key Traits:
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Found in large swarms or colonies
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Often seen flying in and out of a small hole or crack
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Vital pollinators and legally protected in many areas
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Prefer relocation over extermination
2. Bumblebees
Bumblebees are large, round, and covered in soft hair. They have a more “fuzzy” appearance and tend to move slower than other bees. They usually nest underground, in thick grass, or in abandoned rodent holes.
Key Traits:
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Thick-bodied and slow-moving
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Smaller colonies than honey bees
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Generally non-aggressive unless provoked
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Important pollinators but less likely to nest in walls
3. Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees resemble bumblebees in size but have shiny, black, hairless abdomens. They don’t live in colonies but drill into wood to make individual nesting tunnels.
Key Traits:
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Solitary bees that burrow into exposed wood
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Leave sawdust and small round holes in wood trim or siding
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Males are territorial but do not sting
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Can cause long-term damage to wood structures
4. Wasps (Not Bees, But Commonly Confused)
Wasps like yellow jackets and hornets are often mistaken for bees. They are thinner, shinier, and more aggressive. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times and often nest in ground holes, attics, or wall voids.
Key Traits:
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Sleek bodies with little hair
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Aggressive behavior, especially near nests
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Not pollinators—considered pests
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Often require different removal strategies than bees
Why Accurate Identification Matters
Each type of bee (or wasp) requires a different removal plan. Honey bee colonies must be preserved and relocated humanely. Carpenter bees may need wood repairs and deterrents. Wasps, which pose a greater threat, are often eliminated using different methods.
Attempting to treat the wrong type of infestation on your own can make the situation worse—or even dangerous.
Let the Professionals Identify and Handle It
At TylersBeeRemoval.com, we start every job with proper identification. Our experts know the differences between species and provide the safest, most effective solution based on what’s actually on your property.
Not Sure What’s Buzzing Around? We’ll Tell You—and Remove It
Contact us for a quick inspection and expert removal. We’ll identify the type of bee or wasp and take care of it the right way, the first time.
