The term “Black Hornet” is a common, generalized phrase used by the public to describe several species of large, dark-colored stinging insects. This informal name frequently leads to misidentification and confusion about the insect’s actual threat level and behavior. In North America and Europe, the name generally applies to a few specific species that share a large size and a predominantly dark coloration.
Identifying the Species Behind the Name
The species most frequently identified as a “Black Hornet” in North America is the Baldfaced Hornet, scientifically known as Dolichovespula maculata. Despite its common name, this insect is an aerial yellowjacket and is not a member of the Vespa genus, which contains the world’s true hornets. Native to the continent, it is found across the United States and Canada and is characterized by its distinctive black and white markings.
The only true hornet species in North America is the European Hornet (Vespa crabro), introduced from Europe in the 1840s. While not entirely black, its large size and reddish-brown and black coloring often lead to it being mistaken for the “Black Hornet.” This insect is significantly larger than most native wasps and yellowjackets. The European Hornet is established in the eastern half of North America.
Detailed Physical Characteristics
The Baldfaced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) has a striking black body contrasted by distinct white or ivory markings. The name comes from the white markings covering the face and head. Workers typically measure up to 19 millimeters (0.75 inches) in length, making them the largest species within their genus. White bands are also present on the end of the abdomen and sometimes on the legs and thorax.
In contrast, the European Hornet (Vespa crabro) exhibits mahogany-brown or reddish-brown coloration on its head and thorax. Its abdomen is striped with brown and yellow, and its wings are reddish-orange. Workers average about 25 millimeters (1.0 inch) long, and queens can reach up to 35 millimeters (1.4 inches). The larger size and stout body structure of Vespa crabro contribute to its designation as a true hornet.
Distinguishing Them From Common Wasps
Distinguishing these species from smaller insects like Yellowjackets and Paper Wasps involves observing several key morphological traits. The Baldfaced Hornet, being an aerial yellowjacket, is still considerably larger than most ground-nesting yellowjackets, with a bulkier body shape. The European Hornet is much stockier and more robust than smaller wasps, a feature of the Vespa genus.
True hornets, such as the European Hornet, have a notably larger head and a rounder, broader abdomen compared to the more slender bodies of typical yellowjackets and paper wasps. While all social wasps have a narrow connection between the thorax and abdomen (the “wasp waist”), the overall body mass of both the Baldfaced and European Hornets is significantly greater, making them visually more imposing.
Nesting Behavior and Danger Profile
The two species exhibit distinct nesting behaviors that impact their threat level. Baldfaced Hornets construct large, gray, football-shaped paper nests, which they suspend high up in trees, bushes, or under eaves of buildings. These wasps are intensely defensive and will aggressively attack any perceived threat, stinging repeatedly. The Baldfaced Hornet also has a unique defense mechanism where it can squirt venom from its stinger toward the eyes of intruders, causing pain and temporary vision impairment.
In contrast, the European Hornet seeks out dark, enclosed spaces for its nest construction, often utilizing hollow trees, wall voids, or attics. Their paper nests are concealed within these cavities, making them less visible than the exposed nests of the Baldfaced Hornet. The European Hornet is generally less aggressive than the Baldfaced Hornet and tends to avoid conflict unless the nest is directly disturbed or they are handled. Both species possess smooth stingers, allowing them to sting multiple times, and their venom causes significant localized pain.