Bees or wasps?

[Chris Allonby]

Hello,
Can anyone determine whether the insects shown in the photo are bees or wasps (apologies for the poor resolution of the picture)? Previously, we've had sparrows, blue tits and bees in the bird box. Last year there was nothing. The current occupants look more like wasps, but I'm not certain.
Thanks, Chris.

Edit: here's a close up of the same photo:

[Linda257]

Look like wasps to me Chris but might be best waiting for others thoughts

[scozmos]

Definitely looks like Wasps, we have some in a nest box too

[Chris Allonby]

Tanks Linda and Scozmos for the opinions. It confirms what I suspected. I'll see how the situation develops. Hopefully they'll abandon the box after a few weeks.

[Jacksparrow]

Definitely Wasps I would say. If you decide to let them stay you will have them until the end of September.

[Chris Allonby]

They stayed until late August. Nothing in the box thereafter, so hopefully sparrows or blue tits next year.

[Charles B]

Hello,
Can anyone determine whether the insects shown in the photo are bees or wasps (apologies for the poor resolution of the picture)? Previously, we've had sparrows, blue tits and bees in the bird box. Last year there was nothing. The current occupants look more like wasps, but I'm not certain.
Thanks, Chris.

Hi Chris!
Yes they are definately the common wasp!
In the fall, when colonies break up, the 'unemployed' young queens look for new places to live through the winter to build nests in the spring.
So don't allow single, lone wasps to loiter around in September or October!

I had two in my toilet room's passive air shaft tonight and was buzzed away while doing my nature call!

[Chris Allonby]

Thanks Charles. Good advice. I have seen the odd wasp around the house in recent days. I'll deal with any more in an appropriate manner - chasing them away in the first instance.

[Charles B]

Thanks Charles. Good advice. I have seen the odd wasp around the house in recent days. I'll deal with any more in an appropriate manner - chasing them away in the first instance.

Yes, it's better to eliminate one lone wasp now then to deal with thousands next spring!
Take care!