The largest European wasp; the female measures 25 to 35 mm long, males and workers are smaller. In males, the antennae have 13 segments, while females have 12. The male abdomen is composed of 7 visible segments, while that of the female has 6; females are equipped with an ovipositor. Eyes are deeply indented, shaped like a C. Wings are reddish-orange, the petiolated abdomen is orange striped with brown.
Hornets belong to the order or group Hymenoptera. They are closely related to ants and bees, which are also in the same order. Hymenoptera means joined wings or married wings; Hymen = god of marriage, ptera = wings. The hind wings join to the forewings with a row of tiny hooks (called hamuli).
Like most nests building insects, hornets will defend their colony when they consider it threatened. Therefore, the behavior of hornets must be roughly divided into two categories:
- That in close vicinity to the nest (radius by 2-3m)
- That outside of the nest area.
In the presence of a hornet, four things should be avoided: rapid movements, blocking the flight path, vibrating or breathing on the nests
In contrast to the bee, the wasp and hornet can insert and withdraw its sting with comparative ease - the picture on the right shows the much smoother outer casing of the wasp sting. The single wasp is therefore able to deliver multiple stings with ease. This multi-sting capacity suits its generally more aggressive nature.
Another feature unique to the wasp and hornet is that the venom contains a pheromone, which alarms all other wasps in the area and invites them to join the attack on the victim. Whilst one can see the evolutionary and defensive benefits of such an alarm system, it is particularly worrying for the victim. (Insect Stings)...................
