Yellowjackets and hornets are often misunderstood due to their similar appearances and stinging capabilities. Understanding their distinct biological classifications and characteristics helps clarify their roles in the natural world. This article explores where these insects fit within the broader family of wasps and highlights key differences for identification.
The Wasp Family Tree
Wasps are a diverse group of insects in the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. Yellowjackets and hornets both belong to the family Vespidae, specifically the subfamily Vespinae, comprising social wasps. All yellowjackets and hornets are, in fact, types of wasps.
Yellowjackets are categorized into two main genera: Vespula and Dolichovespula. These social insects live in colonies, with a single queen overseeing a large workforce of female workers. Hornets also belong to the genus Vespa. Their shared family, Vespidae, indicates a close evolutionary relationship, yet their classification into different genera points to distinct biological traits and behaviors.
Spotting the Differences: Yellowjackets vs. Hornets
Distinguishing yellowjackets from hornets involves observing their physical appearance, nesting habits, dietary preferences, and aggression levels. These differences provide practical ways to identify them.
Physical appearance offers immediate clues. Yellowjackets are typically smaller, 0.5 to 1 inch long, with slender bodies and narrow waists. They have bright, contrasting yellow and black striped patterns, though some species may exhibit white, black, or red markings. Hornets are generally larger, 1 to 1.5 inches long, with some reaching 2.2 inches. They have a more robust body and display muted coloration, such as reddish-brown with yellow, orange, or brown markings, unlike the vivid yellow of yellowjackets. For instance, the European hornet (Vespa crabro) has a reddish-brown body with yellow rings.
Their nesting habits also differ. Yellowjackets commonly build paper-like nests in protected, concealed areas, such as underground burrows, abandoned rodent nests, or within wall voids and attics. Some species, like the aerial yellowjacket (Dolichovespula arenaria), construct aerial nests in trees or shrubs. Hornet nests, particularly those of the European hornet, are large, football-shaped structures made of papery pulp, often found hanging in trees, shrubs, or under building eaves.
Behavior and diet also vary. Yellowjackets are opportunistic scavengers, frequently attracted to human food sources like sugary drinks and meats, earning them the nickname “meat wasps.” They feed on both plant matter and other insects. Hornets, while consuming some sweet substances, are primarily predatory, hunting insects like flies, bees, and caterpillars to feed their larvae. This predatory nature helps control pest populations.
Regarding aggression, both insects can sting, but their typical demeanor differs. Yellowjackets are aggressive, particularly when their nests are disturbed or when foraging for food. They are prone to stinging repeatedly and can become agitated around human activity, especially later in the season when food sources become scarce. Hornets are generally less aggressive than yellowjackets when away from their nests. However, they vigorously defend their nest if threatened and can sting multiple times.