When it comes to insects that can sting, many people often confuse wasps and hornets. Although they may look similar at first glance, there are actually several differences between these two insects. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the characteristics of wasps and hornets and explore what sets them apart.
Physical Appearance
One of the most obvious differences between wasps and hornets is their physical appearance. Wasps are generally smaller than hornets and have a slimmer body shape. They also tend to have more vibrant colors, such as yellow and black stripes, while hornets are typically black and white or brownish-red.
Another key difference is the shape of their bodies. Wasps have a thin, elongated waist, while hornets have a thicker, more rounded waist. Additionally, hornets have larger heads with more prominent eyes than wasps.
Nesting Habits
Both wasps and hornets are social insects that live in colonies, but they have different nesting habits. Wasps typically build their nests in sheltered areas, such as under eaves or in trees. Their nests are made of paper-like material that they create by chewing wood and mixing it with saliva.
Hornets, on the other hand, usually build their nests in exposed locations, such as on tree branches or in bushes. Their nests are also made of paper, but they are much larger and can contain several hundred hornets.
Behavior
Both wasps and hornets can be aggressive and will sting if they feel threatened. However, hornets are generally more aggressive than wasps and will attack in larger numbers.
Wasps are also known for their scavenging behavior and will often feed on other insects, carrion, and fruit. Hornets, on the other hand, are predators that hunt other insects, such as flies and bees, to feed their young.
Stinging Ability
Both wasps and hornets have stingers that they use to defend themselves and their nests. However, there are some differences in their stinging ability.
Wasp stingers are smooth and can be used repeatedly without harming the wasp. Hornet stingers, on the other hand, are barbed and can only be used once before detaching from the hornet's body. This means that a hornet will die after stinging, while a wasp can continue to sting repeatedly.
Conclusion
While wasps and hornets may look similar, there are several key differences between these two insects. From their physical appearance to their nesting habits and behavior, understanding these differences can help you identify and avoid these stinging insects.