Have you ever wondered how to distinguish a bee from a wasp or a fly? Do you know which ones are dangerous or harmless? Why is it important to protect bees despite their occasional nuisance? Bees are essential to our ecosystem, playing a crucial role in pollination. However, not all flying insects are bees, and not all bees are harmless. This guide will help you to identify bees, differentiate them from wasps and flies, understand their importance, and provide tips on managing and controlling bees and wasps around your home and garden.
1) Identifying bees, wasps, and flies
![]() |
BEES
|
![]() |
WASPS
|
![]() |
FLIES
|
2) Which ones to control and which to protect?
To control: |
|
To protect: |
|
3) How to avoid bee stings:
4) Managing encounters:
5) Control methods:
Insect |
Control method |
Carpenter Bees |
Paint or stain wood, they prefer untreated wood. Use insecticidal dust directly into the nest holes when bees are less active.
Once the bees have vacated, seal the holes with wood putty or caulk. |
Wasps |
Keep food and garbage sealed and clean up spills. Set up traps away from common areas to lure wasps away.
If you find a nest, consider hiring a professional to remove it safely. For smaller nests you can use a wasp spray at night when they are less active. (Always read the label of products and follow the instructions). |
Flies |
Keep food and waste covered, use fly traps, dispose of overripe fruits, keep areas clean, and ensure screens are intact.
For hoverflies there’s no need to control unless they become a significant nuisance, they are harmless, and they help with pollination. |
Repelling bees, wasps, and flies | Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella can repel bees and wasps. Dilute with water and spray around entry points and outdoor areas. |
Bees are critical pollinators, responsible for pollinating approximately one-third of the food we consume. Their activities help in the reproduction of many plants, contributing to biodiversity and the stability of ecosystems. By understanding the differences between bees, wasps, and flies, and recognizing the importance of bees in our ecosystem, you can make informed decisions about which insects need to be controlled and which should be protected.
For questions about helping pollinators, differences between bees and other insects, or any gardening question, please contact your nearest cooperative extension office. We’re always happy to help you with your gardening and agricultural projects.
Cristian Acosta
Agriculture Educator - Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator
cfa34@cornell.edu
585-268-7644 ext 14
Last updated August 20, 2024