Common Stinging Insects Found In Ohio
Ohio is home to a wide range of stinging insects — some more dangerous and aggressive than others. The most common species found around Akron and Northeast Ohio include:
Yellow Jackets
While honey bees are vital to the environment, their close relative, the yellow jacket, is far less friendly.
- Yellow jackets are slimmer than bees and fold their wings when resting.
- They are black and yellow (or black and white) and feed on both insects and human food.
- The German yellow jacket is most common in the Midwest and often nests inside wall voids, attics, crawlspaces, or cracks in exterior walls.
- They may also build nests underground in old rodent burrows.
Tip: Always check for ground nests before mowing or gardening — yellow jackets become aggressive when disturbed. Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and emptied regularly to reduce attraction.
While DIY treatments are available, removing yellow jacket nests yourself can be dangerous. The safest and most effective option is to contact a professional exterminator. Epcon Lane offers targeted yellow jacket treatments so you can reclaim your yard and enjoy your summer without the sting!
Bees
Bees are crucial to our ecosystem and food supply — responsible for pollinating about one in every three bites of food we eat. Unfortunately, several species, including the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, are now endangered and need our protection.
To help bees thrive, consider:
- Planting pollinator-friendly flowers from spring through fall.
- Avoiding the use of harsh pesticides outdoors.
- Supporting initiatives that provide wildflower seeds for bee conservation.
Epcon Lane is committed to protecting beneficial pollinators. We never harm endangered bee species and instead offer humane bee removal services for hives that pose safety risks around your home.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are among the first pests to appear when temperatures rise.
- Brownish in color with yellow or reddish markings
- Long legs, six in total, and about ⅝ to ¾ inches long
- Often found nesting in shrubs, trees, eaves, or sheltered corners of buildings
Their nests resemble paper and are easily visible. Because paper wasps can sting multiple times, never attempt to remove a nest on your own. Instead, contact a licensed pest control professional like Epcon Lane for safe removal.
Prevention Tip: Seal exterior cracks and crevices, keep doors and windows closed, and limit scented perfumes and outdoor food exposure to avoid attracting wasps.
How To Treat A Bee Or Wasp Sting
If you’re stung by a bee or wasp:
- If allergic, seek medical attention immediately. Bee allergies can cause life-threatening reactions.
- Remove the stinger by scraping it off or using tweezers. Avoid squeezing to prevent more venom from releasing.
- Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling.
- Take pain relievers or antihistamines if needed.
- Keep the area clean and monitor for infection.
Remember — the easiest way to avoid stings is through prevention and professional pest control.
How To Prevent Bees, Wasps, And Other Stinging Insects
- Eliminate nests early by inspecting your property at dusk when insects are less active.
- Paint or seal unfinished wood to deter carpenter bees and yellow jackets.
- Remove rotting wood and keep outdoor areas clean.
- Avoid leaving sugary drinks or meats uncovered outdoors.
- Skip bright, floral-patterned clothing and heavy fragrances when outside.
- Stay calm if bees approach — swatting can make them feel threatened.
If bees or wasps have built nests on your property, don’t attempt removal yourself. Epcon Lane’s experts can safely and humanely remove them, ensuring your home remains protected.
Yellow Jackets vs. Bees
While they may look similar, yellow jackets are a type of wasp, not a bee. Key differences include:
- Yellow jackets can sting multiple times, while bees typically sting only once.
- Crushing a yellow jacket releases pheromones that attract more of them — avoid swatting or squishing!
Treat both pests with caution and call Epcon Lane for safe removal.
Hornets: What You Should Know
Hornets are larger and more aggressive than other wasps. Their sting is painful, and their nests can contain hundreds of individuals. If you spot hornet activity near your home, avoid the area and contact a pest control professional immediately.
Are Mud Daubers Dangerous?
Mud daubers are long, slender wasps that build tube-like nests out of mud. Fortunately, they rarely sting and are generally harmless. Still, they can become a nuisance if they start nesting around your home. Epcon Lane’s team can remove mud dauber nests and help you seal entry points to prevent future infestations.
Safe, Professional Removal For Stinging Insects In Akron
While most stinging insects won’t attack unless provoked, their presence around your home can make outdoor activities stressful and unsafe. Attempting to remove nests on your own can lead to painful stings and escalating infestations.
At Epcon Lane Pest Control, our trained technicians provide safe, effective, and environmentally responsible removal for bees, wasps, hornets, and other stinging insects across Akron and Northeast Ohio.
Don’t let buzzing invaders take over your yard — call Epcon Lane today at (330) 278-8939 to schedule your stinging insect inspection or request a free quote!
