Pest Guide > Stinging Insects > Hornets
Hornets
Appearance
- Three fourth to one and one quarter inches in length
- Smooth looking black body with white markings on the head and abdomen
Behavior
- Social insects
- Build large gray-colored paper nests in trees or shrubs
- Nests can also be found on sides of homes
- Nests are usually shaped like footballs or inverted teardrops
- These insects are very protective and will become aggressive if they or their nest is disturbed
- Unlike other stinging insects, can sting multiple times
- Sting can be very painful
- Nests are not reused; New colonies begin each spring
Diet
- Nectar, honeydew and insects
