Hornets (insects in the genus Vespa) are the largest of the eusocial wasps, and are similar in appearance to yellowjackets, their close relatives. Some species can reach up to 5.5 cm (2.2 in) in length. They are distinguished from other vespine wasps by …

Mar 5, 2025 · Hornets are large social insects that tend to be black or brown with yellow or yellowish markings. Due to their size, hornets have a reputation for being more dangerous than other wasp species, though they are not always more aggressive.

The Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), also known as the northern giant hornet, [2] [3] and the Japanese giant hornet, [4] [5] is the world's largest hornet. It is native to temperate and tropical East Asia, South Asia, Mainland Southeast Asia, and parts of the Russian Far East.

May 27, 2024 · Hornets are a type of wasp, although they only make up a small portion of the Vespidae family. When they sting, hornets inject venom into their victim. When stinging other insects, this is enough to kill their prey. In people and most animals, it is enough to cause pain and swelling at the sting site.

The Oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) is a social insect species of the family Vespidae. It can be found in Southwest Asia , Northeast Africa , the island of Madagascar (but no reports have been made of its presence on the island for many years), the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of Southern Europe . [ 2 ]

Peer inside a hornet hive and find out how these social insects live. Discover why male hornets are few and far between.

Jan 9, 2025 · The northern giant hornet is a species of Asian hornet, the largest known wasp species in the world. Sensationally dubbed the “murder hornet” by news media, the insect is able to swiftly destroy entire hives of western honeybees and can inflict a painful sting.

Hornets (Vespa Crabro) Hornet Characteristics. The Hornet is the largest wasp in the British Isles. The smallest Hornet workers are even bigger than the queens of some other species. Hornet queens are over an inch long.

2 days ago · The Japanese hornet and cicada killer wasp have geographically distant native habitats. The Japanese or Asian giant hornet inhabits much of Asia, as far north as Russia. If you see a large wasp there, it is almost certainly the Japanese hornet, the largest hornet in the world.

Dec 4, 2023 · Hornets have several key characteristics and diverse habitats ranging from trees in backyards to untouched wild forests. This article details various types of hornets and provides insight into these misunderstood creatures. Hornet Classification. Hornets are a type of wasp known for their large size and sturdy bodies.