Wasps are a common sight in many environments, and while their presence can sometimes cause concern, understanding them can help alleviate apprehension. Many species of wasps are black, leading to questions about their identity and behavior. Not all black wasps are the same, and distinguishing between them can help clarify their role in the ecosystem and whether they pose a threat. This article provides information on identifying black wasps and understanding their temperament.
Prominent Black Wasp Species
Several black wasp species are frequently encountered across North America, each with distinct characteristics. The Great Black Digger Wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus) is a notable example. These large wasps, with females measuring between 1 to 1.5 inches, are entirely black with iridescent blue-purple wings. They are solitary insects that excavate burrows in dry, sandy, or loose soil for their nests. Adult Great Black Digger Wasps feed on nectar, while the females hunt large insects like grasshoppers and katydids to paralyze and provision for their developing larvae.
Mud Dauber Wasps are another commonly observed group. These wasps are characterized by their long, slender bodies and a very narrow, thread-like waist connecting the thorax to the abdomen. While some mud daubers are solid black or metallic blue, others may have pale or yellow markings. Mud daubers construct distinctive nests made of mud, often found in sheltered locations such as under eaves, in garages, or barns. They primarily hunt spiders, which they paralyze with their sting and place in their mud cells as food for their offspring.
Spider Wasps, belonging to the family Pompilidae, also feature black species and are known for their hunting prowess. These wasps can vary in appearance, with some black species having orange bands on their bodies and notably long, spiny legs. They are solitary and build nests in burrows in the ground or in mud cells. Spider wasps specialize in hunting spiders, which they sting to paralyze before dragging them back to their nests to serve as food for their larvae. Some species may even snip off a spider’s legs to make transportation easier.
Key Identification Markers
Distinguishing black wasps from other insects, or even from different wasp species, involves observing specific physical and behavioral traits. Wasps possess a distinct “wasp waist,” a narrow constriction between their thorax and abdomen, which is more pronounced than in bees. Their bodies are smooth and less hairy compared to the fuzzy appearance of bees. Wasps also have long, segmented antennae that appear straight.
Wings and legs provide further clues. Wasps have two pairs of wings, which are held parallel to their abdomen when at rest. In contrast, flies have only one pair of wings. Wasp legs are slender and not as robust or specialized for pollen collection as those of bees. As hunters, wasps are seen flying close to the ground in search of prey.
Temperament and Stinging Behavior
The temperament of black wasps varies, but most are not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. Solitary black wasps, such as Great Black Digger Wasps, Mud Dauber Wasps, and Spider Wasps, are less aggressive than social wasps because they do not have a large colony to defend. Their primary use of a stinger is for paralyzing prey to provision their nests, or for self-defense when they feel directly threatened.
Stings occur when a wasp’s nest is disturbed, or if the wasp is accidentally handled or trapped against skin. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times without losing their stinger. If a black wasp is nearby, remaining calm and avoiding sudden movements is advisable. Swatting at a wasp can make it more aggressive and increase the likelihood of a sting. Slowly moving away from the area can help prevent an unwanted encounter.