The summer is here, which means many more buzzing insects in gardens, around flowers, and in many other places. While most people love the smell and sight of freshly blooming flowers, many are less keen on the bees and wasps that arrive too (though lots of people know the value of bees). With these two species of insects showing up at similar times, it begs the question: are they friends?

The Relationship Between Bees and Wasps

Both bees and wasps are from the insect order Hymenoptera. They are quite closely related. In fact, bees are believed to have evolved from wasps.

Unfortunately for bees, they are also sometimes the prey of wasps. Typically, wasps do not directly attack bees. However, they do often take the carcasses of dead worker bees as food for their larvae. In some cases, wasps may attack and kill live bees that are out foraging. Both insects are attracted to nectar and wasps like honey, so they can run into each other.

Bees aren’t totally defenceless, however. Especially when the colony works together, bees can fight off wasps quite effectively. They will sometimes warn wasps and hornets not to come close with a special signal.

Furthermore, in some instances, wasps may even kill bee predators, particularly spiders. Since they share many predators, wasp and bee interests occasionally align, though that hardly makes them friends.

What Bees Eat

Bees love honey. In fact, that is why they put all that work into making their honeycomb hives. It helps the colony thrive with food for both the adults and, crucially, the next generation. They also like to eat nectar and pollen. Larvae eat “royal jelly”, a special mix of honey and pollen made by adult bees.

What Wasps Eat

Wasps are a little more varied. Some eat many of the same foods as bees. Others are purely carnivorous, eating mostly dead animal matter. The majority are omnivores, getting their calories from prey, nectar and fruits, primarily.

What Eat Wasps and Bees – Natural Insect Control

Bees and wasps are both eaten by spiders, birds, toads, lizards, turtles, praying mantises, salamanders, dragonflies and many other reptiles and insects. It is important to note that bees play an essential role in healthy ecosystems, helping to pollinate various plants. However, if you are overrun by bees and/or wasps, you could consider introducing some natural predators.

How Truly Nolen Can Help

Of course, a few toads are not always a desirable or sufficiently effective form of bee and wasp removal in Bridgewater. Fortunately, Truly Nolen can help. We offer highly effective pest removal, control and prevention services. Our technicians are well-versed in all the common pests you will find in Nova Scotia. So, we can tackle any problem you may have in a timely and effective manner.

Four Seasons Pest Control

We strongly encourage Bridgewater residents to consider our Four Seasons pest control solution. As the name suggests, this is focused on year-round pest control and prevention. We provide specialized treatments and inspections designed for all the key threats in each season.

This system is pet-friendly and completely safe for your home. We will also identify any pest activity and take quick steps to prevent the problem from turning into an infestation. This is the most reliable way to ensure that your home is ready for any would-be pest infestations all year round.

Schedule Your Bee or Wasp Removal in Bridgewater

Whether you want to know if bees and wasps are friends or you need to identify some traces of an infestation, Truly Nolen is here with expert knowledge and services. We can help you with the removal and other pest solutions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.