Wasps are primarily known for their daytime activities, but the question of whether they fly at night is common. While most wasp species are active during daylight hours, there are specific circumstances and certain species that can be observed flying after dark. It is generally rare to spot a wasp flying at night compared to their peak activity during the day. Understanding these exceptions helps clarify this behavior.
Daytime Activity of Wasps
The majority of wasp species are diurnal, meaning their activity largely occurs during the day. Wasps are most active when temperatures are warmer and sunlight is abundant. During these hours, they are busy with essential tasks such as foraging for food, which includes collecting nectar, pollen, and preying on other insects. Daylight also supports their nest building and maintenance, as well as the complex social interactions within their colonies. Their compound eyes are well-adapted for detecting movement and patterns in bright light, which aids in navigation and identifying food sources.
Species That Fly at Night
While most wasps are diurnal, some species naturally exhibit nocturnal or crepuscular flight patterns. The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is a notable example, capable of flying and even hunting at night. These hornets are attracted to artificial lights and prey on various insects, with their large eyes thought to assist navigation in low-light conditions. Wasps from the Apoica genus also forage at night, utilizing specialized eye adaptations. Certain parasitic wasps, like Ichneumonidae and Braconidae families, are also nocturnal; they are often attracted to lights and use their enlarged eyes to search for night-feeding hosts to lay eggs. The Asian giant hornet can also be active during dusk and may continue into the night, particularly when raiding honeybee colonies.
Why Wasps Might Fly After Dark
Beyond naturally nocturnal species, external factors can cause diurnal wasps to fly after sunset. One common reason is attraction to artificial light sources like streetlights or porch lights; wasps can be attracted by these illuminations, especially if they provide warmth or indicate a potential food source, leading to their appearance near homes at night. Disturbance of a wasp nest is another significant factor prompting nighttime flight. If a nest is agitated, wasps may emerge to defend their colony, even in the dark. Although less active at night, they remain alert to threats; queen wasps might also fly after dark, searching for suitable sites to establish new nests or if drawn indoors by lights.