The Top Three Stinging Insects in West Virginia and How to Prevent Them

If you live in West Virginia, you are no doubt familiar with the state's many stinging insects. Some of these insects can be quite dangerous, so it is important to know how to identify them and prevent them from coming into contact with you or your family. In this blog post, we will discuss the three most common stinging insects in West Virginia and how you can protect yourself from them.

What are the Most Common Stinging Insects in West Virginia?

There are many different types of stinging insects that can be found in West Virginia. However, there are three that are more common than others: bees, wasps, and hornets.

Bees in West Virginia

Bees are perhaps the most well-known of the three, and they are also one of the most important. Bees play a vital role in the pollination of many plants and flowers. They are also a major source of honey.

While bees are not typically aggressive, they will sting if they feel threatened. If you are allergic to bee stings, it is important to seek medical attention immediately as a bee sting can be life-threatening.

Wasps in West Virginia

Wasps are another common stinging insect in West Virginia. Like bees, they can also be a major nuisance if they build their nests near your home.

Wasps are more aggressive than bees and will sting you if they feel threatened. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times. If you are allergic to wasp stings, it is important that you contact medical professionals in the event of a sting.

Hornets in West Virginia

Hornets are the largest type of stinging insect in West Virginia. They are also the most aggressive and can sting multiple times. Hornets can be very dangerous if you are allergic to their stings. If you are ever stung by a hornet, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately.

What Attracts Stinging Insects?

There are a few things that attract stinging insects to your home. The most common thing is food. If you have food out in the open, it is likely that a stinging insect will find it and be attracted to it. Another thing that attracts stinging insects is sweet smells. Things like perfumes and scented candles can attract them as well. Some scents that are sure to bring stinging insects to your yard are:

• Lilac
• Magnolia
• Orange Blossom
• Jasmine

If you want to keep stinging insects away from your home, it is important to avoid using these scents. You should also avoid having food out in the open and be sure to clean up any spills or crumbs right away when eating outdoors.

Are Stinging Insects Harmful to Humans?

Most stinging insects are not harmful to humans unless they are provoked. If you leave them alone, they will usually leave you alone. That being said, there are some exceptions. For example, bees and wasps can be especially dangerous if you are allergic to their venom. If you are allergic to insect venom, it is important to carry an EpiPen on you at all times in case of an emergency.

What Should You Do If You Find a Hive in Your Yard?

If you find a hive in your yard, the best thing to do is to contact an exterminator near you. Do not try to remove it yourself as this can be very dangerous. Exterminators have the proper equipment and training to safely remove the hive without putting anyone at risk. If you disrupt the hive you run the risk of hurting yourself and the stinging insects that live in the hive.