Stinging & Biting Insects | The Specialists

Stinging & Biting Insects species

Southern Africa is crawling with a number of biting and stinging insects, most of which are harmless or easily treated, but can become dangerous when strong allergic reactions occur.

Honey Bees

Honey bees are very beneficial because of the role that they play in pollination.

They are found all over the world, and pollinate more than 100 different types of crops.

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Paper Wasps

These wasps derive their name from creating their nests out of paper-like material.

Also called umbrella wasps, they build distinctive nests in the shape of umbrellas. There are various species of these wasps.

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Chicken Mites (Bird Mites)

These mites derive their name from living on the skin of a variety of birds, including chickens.

They can migrate from birds into buildings and become pests to humans. These pests are found worldwide.

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Bumble Bees

Mostly beneficial insects, bumble bees pollinate crops and plants.

Carpenter Bees

These bees look similar to bumble bees, except that they often lack yellow stripes.

They are mostly solitary creatures.

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Mosquitoes

These pests thrive during summer, breeding in stagnant water or soft soil.

Development into an adult takes up to 14 days.

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European Hornet

This type of Hornet was introduced into New York from Europe in the 1800s.

Larger than yellow jackets, these hornets are mostly nocturnal.

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Flea

Also called a parasite, fleas feed on the blood of warm-blooded beings, including humans.

Cat fleas are most common, feeding on cats, dogs and humans.

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Velvet ("Cow Killers") Ants

The name of this insect is misleading, seeing as they are actually wasps.

The name is derived from the fuzzy coat of the females, who are wingless and brightly coloured. There are various species of these insects.

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Open Pipe Mud Daubers

This wasp derives its name from nesting in mud. They are widely spread in the United States.

Getting rid of stinging & biting insects

Whilst a wide range of DIY and off-the-shelf products are available to manage stinging & biting insects, a large infestation may require professional to ensure the problem won’t reoccur.

Learn More

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