Identifying Bees
Africanized & European Honey Bees
Africanized bees, on average, are slightly smaller than European bees, but otherwise look identical.
- 5/8″ in length
- Nests in trees, ground, and structures
- Africanized can be more defensive
Mistaken for Africanized Bees
Bumble Bee
- 1/4″ to 1″ in length
- Nests in ground
Carpenter Bee
- 3/4″ to 1″ in length
- Nests in wood
- Solitary and generally docile
- Males are orange
- Females are black
Yellow Jacket
- 5/8″ to 3/4″ in length
- Nests in trees, ground, and structures
- Aggressive if disturbed
- Attracted to food
Paper Wasp
- 5/8″ to 1″ in length
- Nests on or in structures (i.e. eaves)
Mud Dauber
- 7/8″ to 1 1/4″ in length
- Small mud nests on or in structures
- Solitary and generally docile
Sand Wasp
- 4/5″ to 1″ in length
- Burrow in sand
- Solitary and generally docile
If you are a resident of the District:
CALL (800) 825-3400
to report bees or yellow jackets.
CALL 911
if you have a bee emergency.