Do Wasps Change Color?
WouterWhether you are working in your yard, picnicking in a park, or at a farmer’s market, you may be wondering if wasps change color. These insects are attracted to specific colors, but their preferences vary. Some wasps prefer to eat different colors of prey.
The European paper wasp, for example, was able to identify other wasps based on their facial markings. This is known as trichromacy. It occurs when insects are attracted to a certain color by a pheromone.
In addition, wasps are attracted to bright spring colors. The University of Maryland tested the color white and found that wasps were more likely to gather nectar from white flowers.
During the summer, worker wasps emerge. Their colonies become visible to humans. You can use wasp traps and nest decoys to reduce interactions with these insects.
Yellow jackets, in particular, are attracted to sugar-rich foods, such as fruit, honeydew, and protein. They are often found near trash cans, picnic areas, and garbage. The National Park Service recommends avoiding yellow jackets in your area. They are primarily active during the day and don’t survive the winter.
One of the most common social wasps is the Vespa species. These insects have yellow markings on their thorax and face. The bald-faced hornet is smaller and is more closely related to the yellow jacket. They are also able to eat fresh meat, fish, and spoiled meat.
The Asian giant hornet is the largest known hornet. It can be more than 4 cm in length.
