Both hornets and wasps strike fear into the hearts of many people. But the threat usually occurs only when nests are disturbed or when territory is infringed upon. Another common problem with hornets and wasps is that they often build their nests in inconvenient locations – near public meeting areas, around park benches and on children’s playgrounds. For the sake of communication between your company and NJ pest control services when you call for assistance, here is how to tell the  difference between a hornet and a wasp.

Appearance and Behavior

Wasps tend to have no body hair on their back. They look similar to a giant flying ant in that respect. They also have a thin, elongated body. The color of wasps varies between types, so you can’t really tell from the color if it is a wasp or a hornet. Be aware, though, that yellow wasps are more aggressive than, for example, the paper wasp. The paper wasp is very passive, and unlikely to sting passersby unless attacked first.

Color and Nesting Habits

Hornets are either black and white or reddish-brown in appearance. Hornets swarm and become very aggressive when their nest is disturbed. Hornet’s nests are always higher up, such as under building eaves. Wasp nests can be located in both high and low locations. You should always contact the NJ pest control experts to handle both hornet’s nests and wasp’s nests.