Stinging Insects
What Are Stinging Insects?
There are a broad range of pests that fall under the stinging insect category. Many are actually beneficial when they are not bothering us, as they help control the populations of spiders and other insects.
The stinging insects that are most often encountered by Parkway Pest Services here in New York include:
- Bumble Bees
- Hornets
- Wasps
- Yellow Jackets
- Honey Bees
- Cicada Killers
- Digger Bees (Ground Bees)
Some of these pests look very similar and they can be difficult to tell apart. If you are not sure what kind of stinging insect you have, Ask Our Entomologist!

Things You Should Know:
- Stinging insects eat spiders and other insects.
- They are attracted to areas of water such as pools and ponds.
- Their stings are painful and can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Why Are They In My House?
There are many different reasons that stinging insects may be around your home. Often, our homes provide the perfect shelter for them to build their nests. They also nest near sources of food and water. Pools or ponds can attract these insects. Digger bees are likely to be found outside the home creating nests in the ground in areas that with well-drained soil and little vegetation.
Are Stinging Insects Dangerous?
Most of the time a sting from one of these pests is painful, but is nothing more than a nuisance. However, some people are allergic to the venom these animals deliver with their sting. This can cause them to be dangerous, especially wasps and hornets that can sting multiple times. It is estimated that there are 100 fatalities each year in the United States due to insect stings. Solitary insects, digger bees are pretty docile but may sting if provoked.
A Guide To Common Pests
Learn more about that insect, rodent, or wildlife and how the pest control professionals at Parkway Pest Services can help you resolve your infestation. Click on the pest to learn more.
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Ants -
Bed Bugs -
Birds -
Box Elder Bugs -
Camel Crickets -
Carpenter Ants -
Carpenter Bees -
Centipedes -
Cicada Killers -
Cockroaches -
Earwigs -
Fabric Pests -
Fleas -
Flies -
Flying Squirrels -
Ground Beetles -
Lady Bugs -
Little Brown Bats -
Mice -
Millipedes -
Mosquitoes -
Pantry Pests -
Raccoons -
Rats -
Silverfish -
Sow Bugs -
Spiders -
Stinging Insects -
Stink Bugs -
Termites
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“The Parkway technician was very professional and courteous.”- Carol G.
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“Having examined the specimens I collected he assured me that it was flying ants. He wrote a report to that affect. He knew their habits and suggested ways I could control them.”- Joseph C.
I was pleased with his knowledge and professionalism.
"I thought I might have termites or flying ants. Their representative, Bill, responded arriving during the time expected. Having examined the specimens I collected he assured me that it was flying ants. He wrote a report to that affect. He knew their habits and suggested ways I could control them. I was pleased with his knowledge and professionalism. I would use them again."- Joseph C. -
“Greatest personality. Walked me through every step of the process. Explained the behavior of termites and how their system would work.”- Thomas F.
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“I called Parkway after ants wanted to rent a room in my house. Booking an appt was fast and easy. The office was patient and helpful when setting up the appt and answering my questions. The tech was professional, knowledgeable, and explained the whole process to me. Everything went smoothly. They are coming back for 2 more appts to make sure the ants are no longer an issue.”- Jullian D.