





While the weather is starting to cool down a bit, we're still dealing with some regular pests. How can you tell the difference between a wasp and hornet and what should you know about them?
Seeing a wasp or hornet can be scary, especially because of how aggressive they can be. Here’s some big differences between the two:
Something you may not know is that hornets are a type of wasp, but not all wasps are hornets. Wasp is used as a general term for certain types of stinging insects. The name hornet refers to 22 species of wasps which all look very similar to yellowjackets (a type of wasp). Certain species of wasps and hornets are known as “eusocial” wasps which means that they live in groups and work together to construct their nests, raise offspring and protect their queen. Hornets can be larger than wasps and carry a large amount of venom. Unlike hornets, there are tens of thousands of species of wasps and their size and behavioral patterns vary.
Hornets and wasps can sting repeatedly, but a hornet's sting is known to be more painful. In order to avoid a sting when outdoors try to keep an eye out for these pets. If you notice them coming back and forth from a particular plant or spot, it is likely there is a nest nearby. These insects are protective of their nests so give them space and they are unlikely to cause an issue. The biggest difference between a hornets nest and a wasp nest is the size and structure. While both insects create a paper nest, a hornets nest is shaped like a teardrop and can be as big as the size of a basketball. A wasp's nest, on the other hand, is usually a spherical shape and can grow to be the size of a football or larger if left alone.
There are many people that are allergic to wasp stings so it’s very important to pay attention to your surroundings and hire a pest control professional if you’re worried about your or your loved ones safety. The best way to prevent a wasp sting aside from treating the problem is to keep any outside food covered, particularly sugary drinks because wasps are heavily attracted to sugar. If you see one wasp flying towards you, try to remain calm and it will likely leave you alone. If you find a swarm comes near you, run away in a straight line and do not wave your arms. Seek a medical professional if you believe you have been stung by a wasp or hornet and believe you may be allergic.
Sources:
https://animals.howstuffworks.com/insects/hornet.htm
https://www.thespruce.com/hornet-vs-wasp-7376280
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