Solitary vs. social stinging insects

Dr. Rakim Turnipseed, Product Development Manager, Insecticides, FMC Global Specialty Solutions

Notorious for their modified, harmful abdomens, stinging pests such as bees, wasps, hornets, scorpions and fire ants can be quite a pain, literally. Anyone who has had the unfortunate experience of being stung by these types of disquieting pests usually wish for a way to not only control, but prevent them.

Knowing the types of stinging pests you’re dealing with can be beneficial in managing their populations. For example:

• Solitary stinging pests. Humans typically encounter these pests individually rather than in groups. These include mud daubers, cicada killers and scorpions. They tend to not be aggressive, except when provoked. Insecticides are not usually needed to control solitary stinging pests; rather, elimination of breeding sites is recommended.
• Social stinging pests. Humans typically find these pests in larger groups, or colonies, whose populations support a queen. They will sting, especially in large numbers, if disturbed. Social stinging pests often are found inside homes during the fall to protect themselves from cooling temperatures. Special care must be exercised when controlling bees. which also are beneficial.

Insecticides can be used when social stinging pests are near humans and their homes. Spraying directly into nest openings or treating fire ant mounds with a suitable insecticide, for example, is also recommended.