The real scourge of beekeepers, the Asian hornet is constantly hunted down and exterminated. In addition to reading this article, we highly recommend getting an Asian wasp trapping kit. Often confused with the European hornet, these social Hymenoptera have easily recognizable features. To help you identify them, here are their characteristics.
Asian Hornets: Morphology and Colors
The Asian hornet is smaller than the European hornet. All castes of these species are less imposing than their European cousins. In fact, Vespa Velutina workers range in size from 1.7 to 2.6 centimeters, while European hornets range in size from 1.9 to 3 centimeters. As for the queen, measurements range from 2.4 to 3.2 centimeters.
You can also identify them by their darker color. The Asian giant hornet has a black body with brown accents. No other species of wasp has this trait. Its face is orange-yellow, which you can also observe on its belly.
These hornets have yellow legs at the end, unlike the solid brown European hornets. The legs of the Chinese hornet are also longer at the back. You will be able to more easily observe the two phase colors of the legs when they are in flight.
identify them by their nest
The Asian hornet is also unique because of its habitat. Like all wasps, they settle in nests and lay their eggs. This one is smaller than another Hymenoptera. In fact, its diameter is between 10 and 40 centimeters. Its average size is about the size of an orange.
Asian hornet’s nests are easily recognizable by their scaly appearance. It is a light gray with lighter shades. For small sizes, the opening is centered on the bottom. As for the larger one, it’s in the lower right corner.
Unlike the nests of European hornets, the nests of Asian hornets are exposed to sunlight. Therefore, you will be able to observe and identify them more easily due to the above-mentioned characteristics. They are usually located high, perched in trees up to 3 meters above the ground.
very aggressive behavior
Another difference from the European hornet is that the Asian hornet is very aggressive. They attack anyone they deem to be a threat to their lair and them. Additionally, multiple stings can be fatal to humans. If you are allergic to it, you must keep your distance.
This hornet is also considered a threat to bees. In fact, they pillage the hive and destroy the colony within it. Because of the threat to these pollinators, Asian hornets are at the heart of extinction plans.
In the end, you will be able to distinguish them by their grouping attacks. The European giant hornet attacks and defends itself alone only when truly threatened, while its Asian cousins live in groups of at least three.
Thanks to the previous information, you will be able to identify the Asian giant hornet more easily. If you find a hive near your home, please notify Council immediately. Due to their dangerous nature, it is best not to hunt them alone.