Stinging Insects
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Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees are often mistaken for bumblebees, but have a distinct lack of yellow markings. Carpenter bees can cause damage to wood structures by drilling holes to create nests. Over time, this can weaken and potentially compromise the structural integrity of the wood. However, they are generally not aggressive and do not pose a threat to humans.
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Bald-Faced Hornets
Bald-faced hornets have a distinctive black and white coloration, with white markings on their faces and bodies. These wasps are known for their aggressive behavior and will defend their nests fiercely. Bald-faced hornets build large, grayish-white paper nests that can reach up to three feet in height.
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European Hornets
European hornets have brown and yellow stripes on their abdomen, dark wings, and a distinct "face" with large mandibles. They are the largest wasp in North America, with queens measuring up to 35 millimeters and workers measuring up to 25 millimeters in length. European hornets build large paper nests, usually in tree hollows, attics, or wall cavities. Their sting is painful and can be dangerous to those who are allergic, but they are not typically aggressive towards humans unless provoked.
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Mud Dauber Wasps
Mud Dauber Wasps are typically black in color with a yellow or metallic blue marking. They also have thin, elongated wings and long antennae. These wasps construct their nests out of mud and are usually not aggressive towards humans.
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Paper Wasp
Paper wasps get their name from the paper-like material they use to build their nests. They are slender and have black or brown bodies with yellow markings. They are known for their aggressive behavior when their nests are threatened. Their stings can be painful and cause allergic reactions in some people.
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Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets live in large colonies with a queen and worker bees. They are about 10-16mm in length and have distinctive black and yellow striped bodies. They play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling populations of other insects, but they can also be a nuisance for humans, especially during outdoor activities. Yellow jackets can be aggressive and will sting repeatedly if they feel threatened, which can be dangerous for people who are allergic to their venom.