They are often brightly colored, with contrasting black and yellow patterns. Their legs are narrow and cylindrical. Wasps are parasites or predators, and feed on other insects and spiders. Bees and wasps are known for their tendency to nest in and around human dwellings. They may nest in the ground, in old bird nests, in cavities, or in paper nests constructed under the eaves of the house or in pyracantha or palm trees.
Some species are social and live in large groups.
Female bees and wasps are also known for their ability to sting. Honey bees leave their stinger behind when they sting, which kills the bee. This means they may only sting once. Individual wasps, on the other hand, may sting a number of times. If you are stung by a honey bee, remove the stinger by scraping it out with a straight-edge such as a knife or credit card.