The Asian giant hornet, scientifically known as Vespa mandarinia, is a species native to temperate and tropical regions across East Asia, South Asia, mainland Southeast Asia, and parts of the Russian Far East. This insect typically inhabits low mountains and forested areas, generally avoiding plains and high-altitude climates. As the largest hornet species in the world, its presence draws considerable attention.
Size
The Asian giant hornet is characterized by its substantial size. Worker hornets measure between 25 to 45 millimeters (approximately 1 to 1.77 inches) in body length. Queens are larger, exceeding 45 millimeters and sometimes reaching up to 50 millimeters (around 2 inches). Some specimens reach 55 millimeters (2.17 inches).
The wingspan of an Asian giant hornet generally ranges from 70 to 76 millimeters (about 2.75 to 3 inches). An adult Asian giant hornet can be comparable in size to a human thumb. This impressive size contributes to their imposing presence in their natural habitat.
Size Comparison
The dimensions of the Asian giant hornet set it apart from many other common insects, making its size particularly noticeable. Compared to a typical honeybee, Vespa mandarinia is four to five times larger. Honeybees are small insects, measuring about 12 to 15 millimeters (0.5 to 0.6 inches) in length.
The European hornet (Vespa crabro), the only other true hornet found in North America, is smaller, measuring 25 to 38 millimeters (1 to 1.5 inches) long with a wingspan of about 50 millimeters (2 inches). Common yellowjackets, often mistaken for hornets, are even smaller, not exceeding 12.7 millimeters (0.5 inches). The Asian giant hornet also dwarfs other large wasps like paper wasps and bald-faced hornets.
Appearance
Beyond their measurable length and wingspan, several distinct physical traits contribute to the perception of the Asian giant hornet’s large and imposing appearance. Its head is broad and large, appearing light orange or yellow-orange with dark eyes. Its prominent head features large, orange mandibles.
The hornet’s body is stout and robust, further enhancing its bulky profile. The thorax is dark brown or black, providing a visual contrast to the head. The abdomen displays a pattern of alternating dark brown or black and yellow or orange bands, with the final segment often being uniformly yellow. These combined visual elements create an overall imposing impression that reinforces the Asian giant hornet’s reputation for its substantial size.