A hornet is a type of predatory wasp belonging to the genus Vespa within the insect family Vespidae. Hornets possess distinct visual characteristics that allow for accurate identification, helping distinguish them from other common stinging pests. Focusing on specific physical cues, such as size and color patterns, is the most effective way to tell a hornet apart from its relatives.
Core Physical Characteristics
Hornets are generally distinguished by their robust size, often measuring between one and one and a half inches in length, making them noticeably larger than most common wasps or yellow jackets. Like all insects, their bodies are divided into three sections: the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. The thorax is relatively wide and strong, supporting two pairs of wings.
The antennae of a hornet are long and possess 12 to 13 segments. While coloration varies by species, a hornet’s markings often incorporate shades of reddish-brown, black, and white or yellow across its segmented abdomen.
Distinguishing Hornets from Wasps and Bees
Differentiating a hornet from other stinging insects requires observing several comparative visual markers. Hornets have a less constricted “waist” where the thorax meets the abdomen compared to many other wasps, which exhibit a slender, “thread-waisted” appearance. This slightly thicker connection gives the hornet a more solid, barrel-chested look.
A key difference lies in the head shape; hornets possess a broader, curved top of the head, known as the vertex, which is visibly wider than the eyes when viewed from above. In contrast, a yellow jacket’s head is narrower in comparison to its body. Coloration is also highly specific: while yellow jackets are defined by stark black and bright yellow bands, true hornets, like the European hornet, often include distinct brown or reddish tones in their markings.
The presence or absence of hair is a simple, reliable way to rule out bees. Hornets and wasps have smooth, mostly hairless bodies, whereas bees have fuzzy bodies that help them collect pollen. Furthermore, the stinger of a female hornet is barbless, allowing it to sting multiple times, unlike the barbed stinger of a honey bee.
Visual Differences Among Common Species
The term “hornet” in North America often refers to two commonly seen insects: the European hornet and the Bald-faced hornet.
European Hornet
The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is the only true hornet species established in the United States. It is characterized by its reddish-brown thorax and a yellow abdomen marked with black teardrop shapes. This species averages between one and one and a half inches in length.
Bald-faced Hornet
The Bald-faced hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) is technically a species of aerial yellow jacket, but its size and aggressive defense earn it the common name of hornet. Its coloration is the most distinguishing feature, as it is stark black with white or ivory markings, especially on its face and the tip of its abdomen. The Bald-faced hornet is smaller than its European counterpart, typically measuring around three-quarters of an inch long.