The terms “wasp” and “hornet” are often used interchangeably, causing confusion about these common stinging insects. While they share a family connection, a hornet is a specific, distinct grouping within the larger wasp family, not simply another type of wasp. Understanding the differences between a true hornet and other common wasps requires looking closely at their scientific classification, physical appearance, and behavior. These distinctions offer practical insights for identifying which insect is buzzing around a backyard or building a nest nearby.
Defining the Relationship
The fundamental difference between a hornet and a wasp lies in their taxonomic classification, which establishes a nested relationship. The broad term “wasp” encompasses a massive, diverse group of insects belonging to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. Both hornets and many familiar wasps, such as yellow jackets and paper wasps, belong to the same family, Vespidae.
All hornets are technically a type of wasp, but the reverse is not true. True hornets are confined exclusively to the genus Vespa, a small, specialized group within the Vespidae family. There are approximately 22 recognized species of Vespa globally, many of which are native to Asia.
The Vespidae family contains many other genera of social wasps, including Vespula and Dolichovespula (yellow jackets), and Polistes (paper wasps). Scientifically, a “hornet” refers specifically to a member of the Vespa genus, distinguishing it from other wasps in the family. This classification separates true hornets from insects colloquially called hornets, such as the bald-faced hornet, which is actually a type of yellow jacket (Dolichovespula maculata).
How to Identify Physical Differences
Visual identification distinguishes a hornet from a common wasp through differences in size, body shape, and coloration. Hornets are generally larger and more robust than most other wasps. Some species, like the Asian giant hornet, reach lengths of up to two inches, while wasps such as yellow jackets typically measure between a third of an inch to one inch.
The body structure of a hornet tends to be broader and bulkier, with a fuller abdomen. Wasps, particularly paper wasps and yellow jackets, possess a more slender, elongated body. They have a noticeably narrower connection between the thorax and abdomen, giving them a more delicate appearance. Hornets also have a broader, more prominent head structure compared to many wasps.
Coloration provides clues for identification, as hornets often feature more muted or distinct color patterns than the stereotypical wasp. While many wasps, especially yellow jackets, exhibit bright, high-contrast black and yellow stripes, hornets frequently incorporate reddish-brown, orange, or white markings with black. For instance, the European hornet (Vespa crabro) is characterized by its reddish-brown and yellow-orange coloring, differing significantly from the vivid yellow and black of a yellow jacket.
Variation in Nesting and Temperament
Hornets and wasps exhibit variations in their nesting habits and disposition toward humans. Hornets, like all social wasps, construct nests using a paper-like material made from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. Hornet nests are typically large, enclosed structures, often spherical or football-shaped, with a protective outer layer, frequently located high in trees or under building eaves.
The nesting habits of common wasps show greater variety. Paper wasps build smaller, open-faced nests consisting of exposed hexagonal combs, often found under porches or eaves. Yellow jackets, another common wasp, build enclosed, paper-like nests in concealed locations, such as underground burrows, wall voids, or dense shrubs. The location and structure of the nest provide a strong indicator of the species present.
Regarding temperament, hornets are generally considered less aggressive than certain species of wasps, such as yellow jackets, unless their nest is directly disturbed. Hornets are primarily predatory, focusing on hunting other insects to feed their larvae, meaning they are less attracted to human food sources like sugary drinks or picnic scraps. Yellow jackets are notorious scavengers in late summer, often seeking human food and becoming aggressive even when unprovoked. Hornets defend their colonies fiercely, and due to their larger size and greater venom load, their sting is often more painful than that of smaller wasps.