WSU Extension Q&A: The A-Bee-C’s of flying, stinging insects
Q. I have a lot of bees or maybe wasps that are living in a hole in the ground. How can I know if they are good or bad?
A. Knowing which bees or wasps you have is critically important, especially when there is a national effort to conserve native bee populations. Many native bees are solitary and nest underground. Some wasps have been known to make a nest in a fallen log or holes in the ground as well. The best way to identify them is to stay calm and still so that you can see what they look like. Wasps are larger, have smaller amounts of hair, and have a typical yellow-black appearance. Bees can also be yellow and black, but are often hairy. There are also bees that are metallic green and blue. While most people would consider wasps as “bad,” remember they can be good predators against some other garden pests.
Q. Can you name the five nutrient-based categories for vegetables?
A. The 5 categories are dark green (broccoli, spinach, leafy lettuce), red and orange (tomatoes, red pepper, carrots, winter squash, sweet potato), legumes (pinto beans, kidney beans – also in the protein group), starchy (corn, potatoes, peas) and other (cucumbers, green peppers, etc.). Each group is good for your health in a different way, so it’s important to eat some from each group every week, especially the first three groups. Source: Cornell University CHFFF.
Q. I see signs for no food and drink outside the animal barns at the fair, and hand-washing stations outside these barns. Is it really that big of a deal?
A. The opportunity to interact with farm animals at the local county fair provides the opportunity for both entertainment and education. However, it also provides an opportunity to expose humans to harmful bacteria. Unfortunately, many people get sick every year because of a visit to an animal exhibit. Animals carry germs that could make people sick — even animals that look clean and healthy. In addition, airborne pieces of dust and dander in the barns can help spread bacteria even without physical contact with animals. To reduce risk of illness, wash hands immediately after leaving animal barns, and do not take food or drink into an area where animals are exhibited.
To submit a question, call 509-735-3551
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This story was originally published August 19, 2017 at 4:47 PM with the headline "WSU Extension Q&A: The A-Bee-C’s of flying, stinging insects."