How Are Wasps and Bees Different?
WouterDuring the summer months, many people may encounter wasps and bees. These two species are members of the same order, Hymenoptera. However, there are many differences between them. While the bees and wasps look alike, they have different body structures. Bees are larger, plumper and have a hairy body while wasps are more slender, smooth and have a thin waistline. Both species feed on nectar and pollen. However, wasps are more aggressive and predatory than bees.
Wasps are predators that scavenge food. They feed on insects such as spiders, caterpillars, flies and other arthropods. However, they do not usually eat meat. They also like crumbs and spilled drinks. Wasps are known for their honey production.
Some types of wasps make mud nests. Other wasps make paper-like nests that are made of wood pulp. They are often found near human homes. Some wasps are social, while others are solitary. There are more than 100,000 species of wasps.
Bees and wasps are related to ants and hornets. They are both members of the order Hymenoptera, which is the group of insects that includes ants. While the bees are not as aggressive as wasps, they still sting. All species of bees are pollinators. They collect nectar and pollen from flowers and feed them to larvae.
Honeybees are the only social bees. They live in hives and make honey. However, they do not hibernate during the winter. They store a large amount of honey in their hives.
