Hornets are a common sight during warmer months. A frequent question is whether these insects remain active after sunset. Understanding their natural rhythms can help clarify their presence and inform safe interactions.
Hornet Activity Patterns
Hornets are primarily diurnal. Their daytime activity is attributed to reliance on visual cues for navigation and hunting. Species like the bald-faced hornet are most active during warm afternoon hours, flying around flowers and searching for insects to support their colonies. As the sun sets, their activity decreases, and they return to their nests.
The European hornet (Vespa crabro), found in North America, is a notable exception. Unlike many other wasps, European hornets are active both day and night. They are frequently attracted to artificial light sources, such as porch lights or illuminated windows, and might be observed flying into glass surfaces. This nocturnal behavior allows them to hunt for moths and other insects active after dark, providing an additional food source. Their ability to fly at night is attributed to their large body and eye size.
Common Nocturnal Imposters
Many large insects active at night are often mistaken for hornets, leading to the misconception that all hornets are nocturnal. Large moths, for instance, can produce a similar buzzing sound and exhibit erratic flight patterns around lights, causing them to be confused with hornets in low-light conditions.
Certain larger beetle species might also be misidentified due to their size and the sounds they make when flying or bumping against surfaces. Other wasp species, while generally diurnal, might be attracted to lights at night, further contributing to confusion. Some ichneumonid and braconid wasps, which are parasitic, are attracted to lights while searching for hosts after dark. Cicada killer wasps, despite their large size, are not true hornets and are typically active during the day, though their appearance can cause alarm.
Safe Practices Around Hornets
Understanding hornet behavior helps in maintaining a safe distance and preventing encounters. Workers foraging away from nests are generally not aggressive unless provoked, so move slowly and avoid swatting if one flies nearby. If a hornet enters a vehicle, stopping the car and opening windows can allow it to escape.
To reduce attracting hornets, remove potential food sources. Keep outdoor eating areas clean, secure trash can lids, and promptly clean up spills, especially sugary or fermented foods. Trimming vegetation, sealing cracks in your home’s exterior, and filling yard holes can eliminate potential nesting sites. If a nest is located, avoid disturbing it and contact a pest control professional for safe removal.