dorsalhornet

The dorsalhornet is a hornet-like insect in the family Vespidae, distinguished by a prominent dorsal horn, a backward-projecting plate on the thorax. Adults are typically 2.5 to 3.0 centimeters long and display the bold yellow-and-black pattern common to many hornets.

Taxonomy and naming: In field guides it is placed within the subfamily Vespinae and is commonly treated as a member of the Vespa group in general references. The name dorsalhornet derives from the species’ characteristic dorsal horn feature.

Description and distribution: Dorsalhornets occur in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, often favoring forest edges, clearings, and shaded meadows. Nests are constructed from chewed wood pulp and resemble papery spheres or ovals, usually suspended from tree branches or shrubs.

Behavior and ecology: Dorsalhornets are social insects forming annual colonies begun by a single queen in spring. They forage for nectar, fruit, and arthropod prey, and defend their nest vigorously. Predation on caterpillars and other insects helps regulate local populations.

Life cycle and human interaction: The queen overwinters in sheltered sites and starts a new colony in spring. Workers mature over several weeks; colonies die back in autumn with new queens and males maturing for overwintering. While stings can be painful, incidents are uncommon outside nest disturbance, and warnings emphasize caution near nests.