Species We Handle
Wasps, Bees & Hornets — We Know Each One
Proper identification is critical. Bees may need relocation while wasps require elimination. Our technicians always identify first before recommending any treatment.
Yellow Jackets
The most dangerous stinging insects in North America. Yellow jackets nest in the ground, wall voids, and attic spaces. They sting repeatedly and swarm aggressively when disturbed — never attempt DIY removal.
Honeybees
Honeybees are vital pollinators and protected in many states. Rather than exterminating, D&D works to safely relocate honeybee colonies whenever possible — connecting them with local beekeepers for re-homing.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, decks, and porch ceilings. Generally less aggressive than yellow jackets but will sting repeatedly if the nest is threatened or disturbed.
Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees bore into untreated wood — decks, siding, fascia boards, and pergolas — to lay eggs. Over time their tunneling causes significant structural damage and attracts woodpeckers that worsen it further.
Bald-Faced Hornets
These large black-and-white hornets build papery aerial nests in trees, eaves, and utility boxes. Their venom is especially potent and they will chase perceived threats a significant distance from the nest.
Bumble Bees
Bumble bees are beneficial, generally docile, and protected species. They nest in the ground or in dense vegetation. We assess each situation carefully and prioritize humane relocation where feasible.
European Hornets
Large, brown-and-yellow hornets that nest in hollow trees, wall cavities, and attics. Uniquely active at night and attracted to lights — and capable of causing structural damage when nesting inside walls.
Mud Daubers
Mud daubers build tubular mud nests on walls, ceilings, and under eaves. While less aggressive, their nests are unsightly and attract other pests. Old nests can also harbor secondary pest problems.
Wasp vs. Bee: Why It Matters
Misidentifying the insect can lead to dangerous DIY attempts or the unnecessary extermination of beneficial pollinators. Our technicians always identify before acting.
Wasps & Hornets
Body
Smooth, slender, shiny with a narrow waist
Behavior
Highly aggressive — sting multiple times
Diet
DietCarnivorous — feed on insects and protein
Nests
NestsPaper nests, ground burrows, wall voids
Benefit
BenefitMinor pest control — no pollination value
Treatment
Elimination and nest removal required
Bees
Body
Fuzzy, rounder body — often hairy legs
Behavior
Generally docile unless directly threatened
Diet
Herbivorous — feed on nectar and pollen
Nests
Wax combs, ground nests, or hollow trees
Benefit
Critical pollinators — essential to ecosystem
Treatment
Relocation preferred wherever possible
Know the Difference
How D&D Safely Removes Stinging Insects
Safe inspection
Our technicians conduct a full property inspection in full protective gear — locating all active nests, entry points, and flight paths before approaching.
Physical removal
Once the nest is neutralized, we physically remove it to prevent re-colonization, secondary pest attraction, and to confirm complete elimination.
Species ID & plan
We identify the exact species to determine whether elimination, relocation, or exclusion is the right approach — protecting beneficial bees whenever possible.
Entry point sealing
We seal the cavities, gaps, and voids that allowed nesting access — especially important for wall-void and attic nests to prevent future colonies returning.
Nest treatment
For wasps and hornets, we apply targeted insecticides directly into the nest — at dusk when colonies are fully returned — for maximum effectiveness and minimal exposure.
Prevention & follow-up
We treat eaves, overhangs, and common nesting areas with residual deterrents and schedule a follow-up to confirm the colony has not re-established.
Why Professional Removal
Why DIY Wasp Removal Is Dangerous
Every year people are seriously injured attempting to remove wasp and hornet nests without professional equipment or training. Here's why it's not worth the risk.
Anaphylactic shock risk
Many people don't know they're allergic until their first severe reaction. A single disturbed nest can trigger hundreds of simultaneous stings — a potentially fatal scenario without epinephrine nearby.
Hidden wall-void nests
Yellow jackets and European hornets nesting inside walls can chew through drywall when treated incorrectly — pushing thousands of wasps into your living space rather than outdoors.
Spray can failures
Store-bought wasp sprays often fail to penetrate deep nests, only angering the colony. Partially treated nests are more dangerous than untreated ones — agitated insects with nowhere safe to retreat.
Re-infestation without removal
Leaving a nest in place — even after spraying — leaves behind pheromone scent trails that attract new colonies the following season. Physical removal is always necessary.
Warning Signs
Signs You Have a Stinging Insect Problem
High wasp traffic near roofline or eaves
Repeated flight activity in and out of a specific spot on your home is one of the clearest indicators of an active nest inside a wall void or attic.
Visible paper or mud nest structures
Grey papery nests under eaves, in shrubs, or in corners of decks and sheds are active colonies — size indicates maturity and urgency of removal.
Buzzing sounds inside walls or ceilings
A low, persistent buzzing from inside a wall or ceiling cavity often indicates yellow jackets or European hornets nesting in a void — these require immediate professional attention.
Chewed wood or round holes in timber
Perfectly round holes in wood decks, fences, or fascia boards are the signature of carpenter bees boring nesting tunnels — often accompanied by sawdust-like frass below.
Ground disturbance with flight activity
Yellow jackets frequently nest underground. Small holes in lawns or landscaping beds with insects flying in and out signal a ground nest that is especially hazardous to step near.
Hidden wall-void nests
A large cluster of bees on a tree branch, mailbox, or fence post is a swarm in transit — typically docile but temporary. Calling a professional quickly improves relocation success.
Before We Arrive
What to Do — and What Not to Do
While waiting for our technicians, follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself and your family.
Keep distance from the nest
Maintain at least 6 feet of clearance from any visible nest. Avoid any sudden movements or vibrations near the area — mowing, trimming, or hammering can trigger an attack.
Keep children and pets away
Restrict access to the area around the nest immediately. Children and pets are especially vulnerable — they may unknowingly disturb a colony and trigger a mass sting response.
Block nest entry points
Blocking the opening forces the colony to find alternate exits — often into your living spaces. Never plug a nest opening before treatment has been applied.
Close nearby windows & doors
If the nest is near an entry point, keep windows, doors, and vents closed to prevent wasps from entering your home while waiting for service.
Spray the nest yourself
DIY sprays agitate colonies without eliminating them. Partially treated nests are unpredictable and significantly more dangerous — wait for a professional with the right equipment.
Attempt removal at daytime
Wasps are most active and aggressive during daylight hours. Even professionals treat nests at dusk when the full colony has returned and activity is at its lowest.
FAQs
Common Questions About Wasp & Bee Removal
How quickly can you respond to a wasp nest problem?
D&D Pest Control offers same-day and next-day service for stinging insect calls — especially for nests near entry points, play areas, or where allergy risk is present. Call early in the day for the best chance of same-day scheduling.
Do you relocate bees instead of killing them?
Yes, whenever feasible. For honeybees especially, D&D works with local beekeepers to safely relocate active colonies. Relocation success depends on nest accessibility, colony size, and whether the comb can be transferred intact. We'll advise you on the best approach for your specific situation.
Is the treatment safe for my garden and flowers?
We use targeted application methods to minimize environmental impact. Treatment is directed specifically at the nest and entry points — not broadcast-sprayed across garden areas. We'll discuss any precautions needed for pollinator gardens during our site visit.
How do I know if the nest is inside my wall?
Key signs include wasps entering and exiting a gap in siding or soffit repeatedly, a buzzing or crackling sound from inside the wall, and — in warm weather — heat-softened honeycomb seeping through drywall or plaster. These nests require specialist access and should never be attempted as DIY.
Can carpenter bees cause serious structural damage?
Over multiple seasons, yes. Each generation of carpenter bees expands existing tunnels, and woodpeckers actively excavate carpenter bee galleries looking for larvae — compounding the damage significantly. Early treatment and sealing of wood surfaces prevents long-term structural harm.