4 Types of Wasps In Michigan Ranked By the Pain of Their Sting

Written by Jennifer Gaeng
Updated: September 2, 2023
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Summer is upon us and with it comes a variety of insects, including wasps. Wasps can be found all over the world. Today, we’re going to take a look at some of the types of wasps that can be found in Michigan. We’ll also take a look at how painful their stings are, so you know what to expect if you encounter one while out and about this summer! Have you ever encountered one of these wasps before? Find out!

Caution should always be taken if you spot a bald-facet hornet near your home or workplace.

1. Bald-Faced Hornet

Bald-faced hornet

Bald-faced Hornets are social wasps that build communal nests by chewing wood to create a sticky thin pulp.

©Ernie Cooper/Shutterstock.com

The first of the types of wasps in Michigan is the bald-faced hornet. While similar in size to its European counterpart, it features an all-black body with white markings around its head area which gives it away from afar. This species tends to build large nests near human dwellings. Caution should always be taken if you spot one near your home or workplace.

They are considered one of the most painfully stinging insects in Michigan. They are number one on our list of wasp stings. Their stings cause intense burning sensations that rank high on the pain scale; definitely, something you’d want to avoid getting into contact with unless absolutely necessary!

2. Yellowjacket

What do yellowjackets eat - yellowjacket eating sockeye salmon- types of wasps in Michigan

Yellowjackets are attracted to sweet foods and meat.

©Ernie Cooper/Shutterstock.com

Next up is the yellowjacket which looks similar to its cousin –the bald-faced hornet – but has bright yellow stripes instead. Yellowjackets are one of the most painful types of wasps in Michigan. They tend to build nests close to human dwellings making them more likely than other species to encounter humans during outdoor activities like picnicking or camping trips.

There are twelve different types of yellowjackets in Michigan, including the German yellowjacket, Eastern yellowjacket, and Southern yellowjacket. Yellowjackets are known to be particularly aggressive during late summer and early fall as they search for food before the winter months. They are attracted to sweet foods and meat, and can often be found near garbage cans, outdoor eating areas, and barbecues.

It’s important to take caution when dealing with yellowjackets, as their stings can be painful and potentially dangerous for those who are allergic. While their sting isn’t as bad as those from bald-faced hornets, they still cause significant pain and should be avoided whenever possible!

3. European Hornets

European hornet (Vespa crabro) busy building a hornet's nest.- types of wasps in Michigan

European hornets have a moderately painful sting.

©Ger Bosma Photos/Shutterstock.com

Next up we have European Hornets who are much larger than regular Hornets and possess extremely long antennae. Unlike other species mentioned above, European Hornets don’t actually produce venomous stings – rather it produces an acidic spray that causes a burning sensation (but not nearly as bad compared with Bald-Faced Hornet). The pain caused by their sting ranks as moderate on our scale – bearable but still noticeable for sure. These types of wasps in Michigan should still be avoided.

In addition, unlike others listed here, Europeans prefer feeding off fruits rather than nectar. This makes them less aggressive overall towards humans since there’s no competition between food sources needed by both parties involved!  

4. Paper Wasp

Types of wasps in Michigan

Paper wasps have a mildly painful sting.

©iStock.com/tenra

Next on our list is the paper wasp which tends to nest near buildings such as homes, sheds, garages, etc. Paper Wasps get their name because they make papery-looking nests out of twigs and leaves. They aren’t particularly aggressive. However, they will defend themselves if threatened or disturbed too much. Their stings usually result in only minor discomfort making them last-place contenders when it comes down to ranking how painful they are compared to other wasp varieties found within state borders today.

The good news here though is that paper wasps rarely ever sting unless provoked. This means they usually only when someone gets too close for comfort or tries touching/disturbing their nest! So just keep an eye out for these guys and stay away from any suspicious-looking nests nearby! 

In Conclusion

Michigan is home to many different types of these fascinating creatures, and each one has its own unique characteristics. Each wasp possesses varying levels of pain associated with stinging ability ranging from mild irritation to downright excruciating depending on which particular species you happen to encounter. It’s important to note that the severity of a sting can vary depending on the individual’s reaction and level of sensitivity to the venom.

In any case, it’s best to avoid contact with these stinging insects. In addition, seek medical attention if stung and experiencing severe symptoms. Also, if you have a wasp infestation of any type on your property, it’s recommended to contact a professional pest control company for safe and effective removal.

Summary of 4 Types of Wasps In Michigan Ranked By the Pain of Their Sting

RankWaspPain of Sting
1Bald-Faced HornetOne of the most painful; stings cause intense burning sensations
2YellowjacketPainful & potentially dangerous for those who are allergic
3European HornetsModerate
4Paper WaspResults in only minor discomfort
Summary Table of 4 Types of Wasps In Michigan

The photo featured at the top of this post is © FCerez/Shutterstock.com


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About the Author

Jennifer Gaeng is a writer at A-Z-Animals focused on animals, lakes, and fishing. With over 15 years of collective experience in writing and researching, Jennifer has honed her skills in various niches, including nature, animals, family care, and self-care. Hailing from Missouri, Jennifer finds inspiration in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her creative spirit extends beyond her writing endeavors, as she finds joy in the art of drawing and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.

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