How Bad Are Wasps?
WouterDespite the reputation of wasps, they are actually very important in the environment and can help control pests. They also produce venom that can help fight cancer.
Wasps are classified into three categories: social wasps, solitary wasps, and hunting wasps. These three groups differ in their behavior and habitat.
Social wasps are predators and control pests. These insects have large colonies that are composed of several workers and a queen. When a nest is threatened, the workers release alarm pheromones, which tell the nestmates to protect the nest.
Solitary wasps are generally harmless. They usually sting only when they are directly handled. However, they may sting multiple times when they feel threatened.
While a single sting may not be very painful, if it becomes intense, you may need to seek medical attention. The pain can last several days and could be a sign of infection or an allergic reaction. You should also remove the stinger and call 911.
There are many species of stinging wasps, and they are known for their pest control abilities and pollination capabilities. Nearly 1,000 plant species are currently dependent on wasps for pollination.
The number of wasps in a nest is often determined by the number of queens. Each queen is responsible for the survival and reproduction of the colony. If there are multiple queens in a nest, the colony may grow and become aggressive. The best way to protect yourself from social wasps is to avoid them.
