Hornets, a type of social wasp, are insects that often inspire curiosity due to their size and intimidating presence. People frequently wonder whether these creatures remain active after the sun sets. Understanding their activity patterns provides valuable insight into their behavior.
Hornet Activity Patterns
Most hornet species are primarily diurnal, meaning their peak activity occurs during daylight hours. They typically forage for food, expand their nests, and care for their young when the sun is up.
However, the European hornet (Vespa crabro), the only true hornet species established in North America, is a notable exception. Unlike many other wasps, European hornets exhibit significant activity both throughout the day and well into the night. They continue essential tasks such as hunting prey, maintaining their nest, and the queen laying eggs even after dark. This nocturnal tendency means that encountering a hornet at night is not uncommon, particularly with this species.
Nighttime observations are often linked to the hornets’ attraction to artificial light sources. European hornets are drawn to porch lights, street lamps, and illuminated windows, sometimes bumping against glass surfaces as they attempt to reach the light. While some sources suggest hornets are less active at night, this species demonstrates consistent activity during evening hours. This extended activity window allows them to exploit resources unavailable during the day.
Reasons for Activity Patterns
The predominantly daytime activity of many hornet species is influenced by biological and environmental factors. Their visual systems are well-suited for bright light, aiding navigation and prey detection. Many of their insect prey are active during the day, making daylight optimal for foraging. Moderate temperatures during the day also support efficient metabolism and flight for most hornet species.
For European hornets, their nighttime activity is attributed to visual capabilities that allow them to navigate in dim light, despite lacking specialized adaptations of truly nocturnal insects. Their large body and eye size contribute to this capacity, enabling effective vision in low light. This allows them to hunt nocturnal insects, such as moths, available after dusk. This adaptation provides a broader foraging window and access to different food sources compared to strictly diurnal species.
Nighttime Encounters and Safety
Observing hornets, especially European hornets, at night often indicates a nearby nest or attraction to your home’s lighting. Hornets are drawn to artificial light sources, which can lead them to fly into windows or gather near outdoor fixtures. Frequent hornets around your property at night might suggest an active colony nearby. Persistent buzzing or tapping noises against windows can be a clear sign of their presence.
To minimize nighttime encounters, turn off unnecessary outdoor lights, or switch to warmer, less attractive light spectrums like red, which hornets reportedly cannot see. Drawing curtains before turning on interior lights can also prevent them from being drawn to your home.
If a hornet is encountered indoors, remain calm and avoid swatting, as this can provoke it. Instead, allow it to find its way out or gently guide it towards an exit.
Sealing cracks and holes in your home’s exterior and ensuring screens are intact can prevent hornets from entering. For active nests close to your home, particularly large ones, contact pest control professionals for safe removal.