Randy Bilesky

President at Go Green

May 12, 2025

Yes, wasps and hornets can seem nasty—especially when they’re buzzing around your food or stinging unprovoked—but there’s more to the story:

Why They Seem Nasty:

1. Aggressive Defenders: Hornets and some wasps (like yellowjackets) are very territorial and will defend their nests aggressively.
2. Multiple Stings: Unlike bees, they can sting multiple times, which makes encounters more painful and memorable.
3. Attracted to Humans: They’re drawn to sweet smells and proteins, which is why they often crash picnics or hover around trash bins.

But They’re Not All Bad:

1. Natural Pest Control: Many wasps eat other insects, including garden pests.
2. Pollination: While not as efficient as bees, some wasps do help pollinate plants.
3. Ecosystem Role: They keep insect populations in check and are food for birds, reptiles, and mammals.

So while their behavior can definitely feel aggressive, it usually comes down to defense or food-seeking, not malice.

Getting stung by a wasp or hornet can be painful and sometimes serious, depending on your body’s reaction. Here’s what typically happens:

🐝 Immediate Effects:

1. Pain & Burning Sensation: Almost instantly, you’ll feel a sharp pain and burning at the sting site.
2. Redness & Swelling: The area becomes red, swollen, and may develop a welt or bump.
3. Itching: After the initial pain fades, itching often kicks in.

🧬 Why This Happens:

Wasps and hornets inject venom that contains toxins and enzymes. These cause:

• Pain by irritating nerve endings
• Inflammation by triggering your immune system
• Allergic reactions in some people

⚠️ More Severe Reactions:

1. Large Local Reaction: Swelling can spread significantly, especially on arms or legs, but it’s not usually dangerous.
2. Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis) – This is serious and can include:

🚨 If these occur, it’s a medical emergency.

✅ What to Do If You’re Stung:

• Wash the area with soap and water.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• Take antihistamines for itching or swelling.
• Use pain relievers like ibuprofen if needed.

If you’re stung multiple times or react badly, get medical help.

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/wasps-hornets-so-nasty-randy-bilesky-cfimc