Do Wasps Have Honey?

Despite the common misconception, most wasps don’t actually make honey. Instead, they feed on sugary substances like nectar, honeydew, and fruit. However, there are some species of wasps that produce honey.

One of the most famous is the Mexican honey wasp. The Mexican honey wasp produces a sugary liquid that is almost identical to the honey made by honey bees. This species is native to Central America and is generally considered a beneficial insect. However, it does not produce in large quantities.

Another example is the Asian giant hornet. This species produces a sweet secretion that is collected by beverage companies and used as an ingredient in energy drinks. Its secretions are also a source of protein for yellow jackets.

Other than the Mexican honey wasp, there aren’t a lot of other species of wasps that produce honey. In fact, there are only seventeen species of wasps that produce honey. The majority of them are solitary insects.

However, there are some social wasps. The neotropical social wasp Brachygastra mellifica produces a honey resembling maple syrup. In some cultures, this honey is considered a delicacy.

However, most wasp species aren’t really good at making honey. They prefer to eat sugary substances like nectar, fruit, and insect protein. And they do so on the go. They also break up prey to bring back to the larvae. They use a shiny stinger to do so.

In some places, the Mexican honey wasp actually makes the best honey. However, it’s not easy to find.

Continue reading:

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