What Can Wasps and Hornets See in the Dark?
WouterAlmost all wasps and hornets are active during the day, however some species remain in their nests at night. These nocturnal species will stay in their nests until the sun rises. However, these wasps do not typically attack you. Rather, they will attack anything that approaches their nest.
Nocturnal wasps have anatomical adaptations to dim light. These adaptations include the size of their eyes, which are larger than those of diurnal wasps. This is thought to allow these insects to perceive the general light intensity of the surrounding environment.
Hornets also have anatomical adaptations for dim light. These adaptations include the size and optical sensitivity of their eyes. Although hornets have eyes that are not as sensitive as diurnal wasps, they do have larger facet lenses. These larger lenses help these insects to fly at night.
Nocturnal wasps are typically found in moist areas, such as near a moist pond or in moist woods. They are also known for building mud nests. These nests are often used by parasitic wasps, which lay eggs on their hosts or night-feeding caterpillars.
Although most wasps and hornets do not attack humans, they are often stinging. They are also known to attack other insects, such as spiders, which will paralyze them. This is why it is important to wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeve shirts and boots. If you have to get close to a nest, wear light colors, such as blue.
The most common wasps and hornets in the United States are the yellowjacket and the European hornet. These hornets are commonly seen in large colonies. During the summer, these insects are especially active.
