Bees and Wasps

Bees and wasps are attracted to food, sugary drinks, bright colors, and sheltered areas where they can build nests. In Hawaiʻi’s warm climate, they are active year-round and may nest around buildings, roof eaves, and trees.

Common Reasons

Bees are attracted to open soda cans, juice, and other sugary foods. They are often found around trash bins without tight-fitting lids and near flowering plants. They may also enter through small openings in walls, vents, or rooflines where a hive could be present.

Signs of Activity

Signs that a hive or nest has been built nearby include an increase in bees or wasps in the area and visible nests attached to structures such as eaves, railings, or rooflines. You may also hear buzzing coming from inside walls or ceilings, or notice bees repeatedly flying in and out of a small opening in a wall.

How To Respond to Bees and Wasps

Step 1: Avoid Disturbance

Do not swat at bees or wasps or attempt to spray or knock down a nest yourself. Keep a safe distance from any visible nests and report the sighting to Facilities Management.

Step 2: Reduce Attractants

Keep food and drinks covered when outdoors, rinse recyclables before placing them in bins, and clean up spills promptly, especially sugary liquids.

Step 3: Prevent Entry

Keep windows and doors closed or properly screened, and submit a work request to seal any visible gaps or openings in walls.

Step 4: Report Nests Immediately

Submit a work request if you see a nest on or near a building, do not attempt to remove it yourself, especially if it is large or hard to reach, and allow professional pest control to handle the removal.

Stings: What to Expect and How to Treat

Bee and wasp stings are usually painful but not dangerous for most people. Common symptoms include redness, swelling, and soreness at the sting site that improves within a few hours to a few days.

To Treat a Sting

If stung by a bee gently remove the stinger by scraping it out (do not squeeze), wash the area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and use over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines if needed.

Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention if you experience severe swelling, worsening pain, signs of infection, or symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, widespread hives, dizziness, or swelling of the face or throat.

Important Considerations

Bees play an important role in pollination and are generally not aggressive unless disturbed. Wasps may be more defensive near their nests. Most problems occur when nests are accidentally disturbed. Early reporting and avoiding contact are the safest and most effective ways to manage bee and wasps.