Queen hornets are the architects of their colonies, initiating new nests each spring. Identifying these large insects is important for understanding their life cycle and behavior. Knowing their distinguishing features helps differentiate them from other wasps and even worker hornets.
Physical Characteristics
Queen hornets are notably larger than their worker counterparts, a key identifier. For instance, a European hornet queen (Vespa crabro) can measure up to 35 mm (1.4 inches) in length, while workers typically average around 25 mm (1 inch). The Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) queen is even larger, reaching 4 cm to 5 cm in length, with a wingspan of 4 cm to 7 cm. This significant size difference is often the most immediate clue.
Beyond size, specific coloration and body shape are important. European hornet queens display a reddish-brown head and thorax, with an abdomen striped in yellow and brown. The black stripes on their abdomen often feature distinct teardrop shapes.
They possess reddish-orange wings and a robust body with some hair on the thorax and abdomen. In contrast, the Asian giant hornet queen has a broad, light orange head, brown antennae, a predominantly black thorax, and an abdomen with orange-black stripes. Their large orange mandibles also stand out.
Queen Versus Worker Hornets and Other Wasps
Distinguishing a queen hornet from a worker hornet primarily involves size. Queen hornets are consistently larger and more robust than workers within the same species. While their coloration might be similar to workers, the queen’s overall larger size and more substantial build are reliable indicators.
Differentiating queen hornets from other large, stinging insects requires attention to specific visual cues. Yellowjackets, while also yellow and black, are generally smaller, with workers around 12 mm (0.47 inches) and queens up to 19 mm (0.75 inches). Yellowjackets typically have more vibrant yellow and black patterns, and their bodies tend to be less robust than hornets. Paper wasps often build umbrella-shaped nests with exposed cells and have long dangling legs during flight, a feature not typically seen in hornets. Hornets, including queens, have a more stocky build and less vibrant coloration compared to many yellowjacket species.
When comparing different hornet species, such as the European hornet and the Asian giant hornet, distinct features apply. Recognizing these specific patterns and overall body proportions helps in accurate identification.
Seasonal Presence and Behavior
Queen hornets emerge from hibernation in early spring, typically around March or April, when temperatures begin to rise. During this period, they are solitary and focused on establishing a new colony. A queen hornet’s primary activity in early spring involves scouting for a suitable, sheltered nesting site. These locations can include hollow trees, attics, sheds, or wall voids.
Once a site is selected, the queen begins to construct a small, initial nest using chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva, creating a paper-like material. She then lays her first batch of eggs, which will develop into the colony’s first workers. Observing a single, unusually large hornet flying low and inspecting structures in early spring is a strong indication that it is a queen searching for a place to build her nest. This solitary behavior is characteristic of the queen before her worker offspring emerge and take over foraging and nest expansion duties.