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Asian hornet

Asian hornet

Vespa velutina

A species of Hornets, Also known as Yellow-legged hornet, Indian hornet

The asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a predatory species, preying primarily on deceased animals and arthropods, including honey bees. Because of this, it's a major pest for the beekeeping industry, weakening and destroying honey bee hives. The females have a stinger that can inflict pain on humans, but the males do not.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Animals
Bite Animals
Does the Asian hornet sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About Asian hornet
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Attributes of Asian hornet
Colors
Black
Orange
Habitat
cultivated/agricultural land; forest; plantation; orchard; livestock production system; disturbed area; rail/roadside; urban/peri-urban area; building; grassland; riverbank; wetland
Adult Food Sources
Ripe fruit, tree sap, honeybee workers, sugary plant secretions, insects and other arthropods
Larva Food Source
Proteins from pre-digested insects, honeybees, flies, caterpillars, other small arthropods
Biting/stinging
The Asian hornet may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
The Asian hornet has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Defensive attack
The Asian hornet has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Asian hornet can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Asian hornet is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Asian hornet typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Asian hornet
It is native to southeast Asia. It is found in Asia and Europe. It is of concern as an invasive species in some other countries.
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Distribution Area of Asian hornet
Korea, Japan, China
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Appearance of Asian hornet
Typically queens are 3 cm in length, and males about 2.5 cm. Workers measure about 2 cm in length. The species has distinctive yellow tarsi (legs). The thorax is a velvety brown or black with a brown abdomen. Each abdominal segment has a narrow posterior yellow border, except for the fourth segment, which is orange. The head is black and the face yellow.
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How to Identify Asian hornet?

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Life Cycle of Asian hornet
Egg The embryonic stage where asian hornet begins life, typically deposited in a protected environment. Small, oval, and often cream-colored, these eggs lack mobility and sensory organs, relying on parental care or the environment for survival.
Larva After hatching, the larva of asian hornet appears worm-like, with a strong appetite for growth. Lacking adult-like features such as wings, it undergoes several molts, increasing in size and sometimes altering in coloration with each stage.
Pupal Asian hornet enters the pupal stage encased in a cocoon, undergoing its most radical transformation. Non-feeding and immobile, it reorganizes internally, developing wings, compound eyes, and other adult structures through histolysis and histogenesis.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult asian hornet’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Asian hornet
2 - 3 cm
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Predators of Asian hornet Larvae
Birds, ants, rodents
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Predators of Adult Asian hornet
Birds, dragonflies, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Asian hornet
Asian hornet can differentiate between different flowers by their pattern of ultraviolet light, optimizing their foraging efficiency.
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Scientific Classification of Asian hornet
Class
Bugs
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Order
Bees
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Family
Vespids
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Genus
Hornets
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Tips for Finding Asian hornet
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Youth Habitat of Asian hornet
Rotting and Decaying Matter, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Asian hornet
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Asian hornet
Sweet substances like sugary syrups or overripe fruit can be used as bait to attract asian hornet.
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Habitat Preferences of Asian hornet Through Different Life Stages
The nests of asian hornet larvae are usually found hanging in high locations like tall trees or sometimes under eaves. To observe their egg-laying behavior, one should inspect the inner structure of their nests, which are often not readily visible and require careful approach without disturbance. Pupae of asian hornet, contained within their distinctive cocoons, are also located inside the nests. Adults typically forage at varied locations including gardens, near flower blooms, or other areas where they can find food sources like insects and sweet substances. Searching for adults involves scanning for flying insects or checking near potential food sources.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Asian hornet
The best time to search for asian hornet is during the day when they are most active, especially in warmer months.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Asian hornet
Dry, warm weather is more suitable for finding asian hornet since they are less active during cold or rainy periods.
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How and Where Can You Find Asian hornet at Different Life Stages
Larva Asian hornet larvae are found inside the nest. To locate them, observe adult asian hornet during the day to trace their flight path back to the nest. Ensure to wear protective clothing and proceed with caution to prevent stings.
Adult Asian hornet adults are commonly found foraging for food. Place traps with bait such as sweet substances or proteins (like fish or meat) in areas where adult asian hornet are spotted. Use protective gear if attempting to get close to or capture asian hornet.
Are Asian hornet harmful?
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The asian hornet has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

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Are Asian hornet harmful to humans?

The asian hornet has a dangerous sting, especially to those who are allergic to its venom. Symptoms can be severe and include anaphylactic shock and death. Though these hornets are not particularly aggressive towards humans, they may sting to protect their hive. Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms after a sting.
The asian hornet builds hives in wooded items and structures, such as creates, wooden forts and swingsets, and trees. When around these areas, check cautiously for hornets’ nests before proceeding. Infestations can be managed with baits, traps, and insecticides. If you find a nest, consult a professional to remove it safely.
Harmful Effects of Asian hornet
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Toxic to Humans

Asian hornet can deliver a painful sting injecting venom containing neurotoxins and cytotoxins. These toxins can cause localized pain, swelling, and redness. In severe cases, the venom may lead to nausea, headache, and muscle damage. Prolonged exposure can result in systemic reactions with rare but possible fatal complications.

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Toxic to Animals

Asian hornet can deliver a venom that ranges from mild to severe in its effects through bites. This species typically affects humans and various domestic animals, causing a range of symptoms from minor irritation to serious medical conditions. Small mammals may also suffer from the toxicity, with consequences varying based on the amount of venom injected and the sensitivity of the individual animal. The venom is particularly tailored to incapacitate or harm other animals via enzymatic action that can damage skin and underlying tissues.

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Bite Animals

Asian hornet predominantly uses its mandibles to capture prey items and manipulate materials while constructing nests. This behavior enables survival and serves as a mode to ward off potential threats. Although biting is not their primary means of defense, it coincides with their ecology.

More Effects of Asian hornet

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