Wasps, yellow jackets, and bees all belong to the Hymenoptera order, but they have some distinct differences. Wasps have narrow waists and smooth, shiny bodies, and they can be brightly colored. Yellow jackets have similar bodies, but they are more stocky, and they have bright yellow and black bands. Bees are typically rounder and fuzzier than wasps and yellow jackets, and they are usually brown or black with yellow or orange stripes.

Yellow jackets build their nests in the ground or in wall voids, while wasps build their nests in trees, on eaves, or under rooflines. Yellow jacket nests are often harder to locate because they are hidden, and they have a small entrance hole. Wasps' nests are often more visible and can be seen hanging from tree branches or eaves of buildings.

Wasps, yellow jackets, and bees can all sting, and some people may have allergic reactions to the venom. However, yellow jackets are generally considered to be the most aggressive and dangerous because they can sting repeatedly and their stings are more painful. Bees are usually less aggressive, and they usually only sting when provoked or threatened.

To prevent wasps, yellow jackets, and bees from building nests on your property, keep your garbage cans sealed, cover your food and drinks, and clean up any food spills or waste immediately. Also, seal any cracks or openings in your home's exterior and trim any tree branches or shrubs that are touching your home.

If you find a wasp, yellow jacket, or bee nest on your property, it's best to leave it alone and call a professional pest control company. Attempting to remove the nest on your own can be dangerous and may aggravate the insects, causing them to attack.

If you are stung by a wasp, yellow jacket, or bee, wash the sting site with soap and water and apply ice to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers and antihistamines may also help alleviate symptoms. However, if you have a severe allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Wasps and yellow jackets can cause damage to your property by building their nests in wall voids, attics, and other areas. Bees, on the other hand, typically don't cause property damage. However, if you have a large bee colony living in your home's walls, it can be difficult to remove them without causing damage.

Wasp, yellow jacket, and bee infestations in New England are most common in the late summer and early fall when the insects are more active and looking for food sources to prepare for winter.

Wasp, yellow jacket, and bee nests usually only last for one season. In the fall, the insects die off, and the nest is abandoned. However, if the nest is not removed, it can attract new insects in the following season.

A: Honey bees and bumble bees are two of the most common types of bees. While they look similar, there are some differences between them. Honey bees have a slender, elongated body with fewer stripes compared to bumblebees. They also have a barbed stinger that detaches from their body when they sting, which can result in their death. In contrast, bumblebees have a fuzzy, round body and a smooth stinger that does not detach.