Bees and wasps
Native and exotic species of wasps and bees
Differentiating native wasps and native bees from exotic species can sometimes be difficult. Some species will mimic other species and others appear similar to some of our native species.
Become more familiar with our natives by knowing where you might find them, their appearance and what you might find them doing. Understanding exotic wasp and bee species may help you recognise different features from our native species. Knowing key features like appearance and the size of the insects can help you determine if they need to be reported or not.
If you suspect you have found an exotic species then you must report it to NSW DPI:
- Call the Exotic Plant Pest hotline on 1800 084 881
- Submit an online form, OR
- Email biosecurity@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Include a photo of the insect as part of your report. Do not kill the insect in case it is a native.
| Thumbnail | Title | Action required |
|---|---|---|
 |
Teddy bear bee |
No action required |
 |
Spider wasp |
No action required |
 |
Potter wasps |
No action required |
 |
Great carpenter bee |
No action required |
 |
Giant honey bee |
Report if found |
 |
European wasp |
No action required |
 |
European hornet |
Report if found |
 |
European honeybee |
No action required |
 |
European bumblebee |
Report if found |
 |
Dwarf honey bee |
Report if found |
 |
Blue banded bee |
No action required |
 |
Australian paper wasps |
No action required |
 |
Asian Hornet |
Report if found |
 |
Asian honey bee |
Report if found |
 |
Asian giant hornet |
Report if found |
