How Do Wasps Sting?

Among flying insects, wasps are among the most poisonous. They possess a stinger that looks like a small needle and juts out from the rear end of the insect when it stings. It isn’t barbed like the stinger of a bee, but it is very painful.

Most wasp species are social insects that feed on nectar from plants. Some species are predatory and feed on prey. These wasps are called predatory because they use their stingers to paralyze their prey. Others are eusocial and behave like bees.

Wasps are primarily active during the day. They attack anything they perceive as a threat to their nest. If they notice a threat, they will release a chemical into the air to signal other nest defenders and workers. Using a swarm to attack, the wasps will sting the enemy until the enemy tries to retreat.

Wasps are also known to be territorial and aggressive. When a nest is threatened, they will swarm, causing multiple stings.

The wasp’s venom is medically important and can cause adverse reactions in some people. People allergic to stings should watch for symptoms and avoid wasps.

Wasps also have a unique method of reproduction. They lay their eggs on top of a host spider. The wasp larva then burrows into the spider’s body and eats it from the inside. Once the larva is fully grown, it flies away to mate and repeat the cycle.

Wasps are also notorious for attacking bees. They are known to attack honey bee colonies. Some species also feed on other insects, such as wasps.