Be wary of wasps, bees

By My Courier-Tribune

Missourians are often most associated with the social insects such as hornets, yellowjackets, the paper wasp, bumblebees and honeybees, reports the Department of Conservation. But, there are several solitary species that do not make hexagonal nest that people are also familiar with. These insects nest in hollow twigs, cavities in wood, in the ground or construct nests from plant resin or mud like the mud dauber or potter wasp.

“The sting of these solitary species is used to paralyze prey,” reports the conservation department.

As families are out enjoying the great outdoors, the department offers tips to avoid stings.

Bees and wasps are drawn to sweet, sugary substances, hence why you may see them swarming around a picnic shelter, trash can or cookout.

To stay safe, the department recommends keeping your distance from nests, colonies and swarms.

“If you happen to stumble upon one, walk swiftly and calmly in the opposite direction,” reports the conservation department. “If you have one or two flying around your head, don’t freak out. If you swat at it or jerk from side to side, you may make it feel threatened.”