Not all stinging insects behave the same way — or require the same response. Identifying what you have is the first and most important step before taking any action.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are the most aggressive stinging insect homeowners encounter in the Bay Area. They build large colonies in underground burrows (often old rodent tunnels), inside wall voids, under eaves, and in other enclosed spaces. They are scavengers attracted to food and protein — which is why they’re unwelcome guests at outdoor meals.
Yellow jackets are capable of stinging multiple times and will defend their nest aggressively if disturbed. Population peaks in late summer and fall when colonies reach maximum size.
Paper Wasps
Paper wasps build open, umbrella-shaped nests under eaves, in garage rafters, and in vegetation. They are less aggressive than yellow jackets and generally won’t sting unless the nest is directly threatened. Their slender bodies and long legs distinguish them from yellow jackets.
Mud Daubers
Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build individual mud tube nests on walls, eaves, and under overhangs. They are not social insects and are essentially non-aggressive. Mud daubers control spiders — each mud cell is provisioned with a paralyzed spider as food for the larva.
Honey Bees
Honey bees are a protected and beneficial insect — they should never be killed. If you have a honey bee swarm or an established colony in your structure, ATCO works with local beekeepers for humane removal and relocation. Destroying a honey bee colony is both unnecessary and environmentally harmful.
When to Call ATCO
Yellow jacket nests in walls, under decks, or underground near high-traffic areas are a safety concern and require professional removal. Paper wasp nests that are actively growing near entry points or children’s play areas are best removed professionally. Contact ATCO for stinging insect assessment and removal.