bumblebees, honeybees and wasps.

[warpig3]

I am confused (again). What is the difference between these?

In my mind a wasp is nasty, aggressive and hangs out at the bins whereas a bumblebee is fat, furry and hangs out around flowers. If that is right, then where does a honeybee fit in and what are the big, big, bumblebees called.

[Tallulah!]

You're on the right track!
If you google image each in turn you will see the difference.
Honeybees are a smaller version of the bumblebee. They sting when under threat, bumbles don't usually. Honeybees live in huge colonies like 70,000 but bumblesbees only around a 100.
Wasps do a lot of GOOD. They collect caterpillars and other bugs to feed their young.
Hornets are the larger version of wasps.
There are also solitary bees that only lay a few eggs.
They are all very interesting to watch but be sure not to use pesticides when they are out flying.
I used to keep bees. I loved them and their honey!
x

[wildwood]

I suppose the easiest way to distinguish between them is the big bumbly ones are the bumblebees (sorry :-) and the smaller ones on the flowers are honeybees. Wasps are carnivorous and, as Tallulah said, eat other insects.

[warpig3]

Thank you Tallulah, its off to google I go.

[warpig3]

Thanks wildwood, your post wasnt there when I posted!

[carlton23]

And always remember, Bees are vital to our existence.

[warpig3]

Too true carlton, caught that on the TV last night, didnt realise how important they were, amazing.