Bees, Hornets, Wasps, Flies & Mosquitoes

Detailed image of a cluster fly for pest identification purposes

Cluster Flies (Pollenia Rudis): Size: 5/16” long color: non-metallic, light & dark grey abdomen In the late fall, cluster flies will fly to the sunny sides of homes and other structures in search of protected sites to over-winter. They will migrate inside through cracks and crevices and as the temperature drops they will remain in a semi-dormant state until warmed by heat from the sun. They can often be found in great numbers in wall-voids, attics and other inaccessible areas. After emerging in the spring, they are frequently found sluggishly buzzing around windows.To control these annoying pests, call our experts at 781-691-1411.

Identification image of a carpenter bee showing shiny black abdomen and large body size

Carpenter Bees: In the late-spring and early summer, homeowners often notice large, black bees hovering around the outside of their homes. These are probably carpenter bees searching for mates and favorable sites to construct their nests. Male carpenter bees are quite aggressive, often hovering in front of people who are around the nests. Although carpenter bees are less aggressive than wasps, female bees provisioning their nests will sting.Carpenter bees drill a perfectly round 1/2 inch diameter hole into the wood. They frequently drill into bare unfinished wood including eaves, window trim, fascia boards and decks. After drilling a hole against the grain, the bee turns at a right angle and tunnels along the grain of the wood. Over time, these bees will cause considerable damage.

For prompt control of these damaging pests call our experts at
781-691-1411.

Identification image of a drain fly with fuzzy wings and moth-like appearance, commonly found near sinks and drains

Drain Flies: Drain flies are a common, Major health hazard. These small insects closely resemble fruit flies and breed in the decaying organic matter typically found in “J” traps or floor and sink drains. Drain flies cannot be eliminated unless you remove their food source and egg laying environment.

Identification image of a European hornet showing reddish-brown head and yellow-striped abdomen

European Hornet: They are about 5/8 to 3/4+ inch in length, the queens are generally a little larger. They are mostly black with a white pattern on most of the face, and a few white markings on their body. The inseminated queen uses chewed up wood fibers to build a paper nest. Eggs are laid in the cells, as the eggs hatch, the larvae are fed by the queen. As the colony grows, the workers take over enlarging the nest and feeding the larvae, leaving the queen to produce eggs.

Identification image of a fruit fly with red eyes and tan body, commonly found near ripe or decaying fruit

Fruit Fly: Adults are about 1/8 inch in length and the color varies between tan, brownish, or brownish-black. The eyes are normally bright red. Fruit flies are drawn to fresh fruit and vegetables or where there is plenty of moisture and yeast.

Identification image of a housefly with gray body, red eyes, and clear wings, often found in kitchens and trash areas

House Fly: The house fly is the most common of all flies fluttering in homes, and indeed one of the most widely distributed insects; it is often considered a pest that can carry serious diseases. Its eggs are laid in almost any moist and warm material such as manure, decaying vegetable material and garbage.

Identification image of a mosquito with long legs, narrow body, and proboscis used for biting

Mosquitoes: The females of most mosquito species suck blood from other animals, which has made them the most deadly disease vector known, killing millions of people over thousands of years and continuing to kill millions per year by the spread of diseases.Most species are nocturnal or crepuscular (dawn or dusk) feeders. During the heat of the day most mosquitoes rest in a cool place and wait for the evenings. They may still bite if disturbed. Mosquito’s are adept at infiltration and have been known to find their way into homes via deactivated air conditioning units.

Identification image of a paper wasp with slender body, long legs, and narrow waist, often found near paper-like nests

Paper Wasp: Adults are about 5/8-3/4 inch long. They are usually brownish with yellow markings, and some have been known to have reddish markings. Paper wasps will hang their comb nests from branches, twigs and shrubs. Most often, if these nests are approached or tampered with they will sting.

Identification image of a yellow jacket with bold black and yellow stripes, compact body, and fast flight behavior

Yellow Jackets: Yellow jackets, sometimes known as hornets, are short wasps that are black and yellow or white.All yellow jackets build paper nests that are completely surrounded by a paper envelope. Most yellow jackets nest underground. They often use burrows made by rodents or other natural openings as nest sites. The yellow jacket likes to nest inside walls of houses.

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