Background

Hornets in the genus Vespa play a critical role as predators, pollinators, and seed dispersers in their native habitats, but in North America these species may have a disastrous impact on agriculture by reducing populations of important pollinators such as the honey bee. Hornets are large-bodied social wasps native to Europe and Asia. They usually build large nests constructed of papery material in cavities. Nests are usually constructed annually, founded in the spring by over-wintering queens. Hornets generally feed on fruit, nectar, and other insects. Several species will attack honey bee hives and the nests of other social wasps. Hornets have a potent sting, and they can pose a serious health risk to humans.

Scope

Exotic Hornet ID was designed and developed to facilitate rapid identification of potentially invasive hornets (Vespa: Vespidae: Hymenoptera), all of which are non-native to the U.S. Exotic Hornet ID is intended to be used by individuals with some knowledge of the order Hymenoptera. Specifically, this tool is designed for port identifiers and screeners who encounter exotic hornet species at the ports. A more generalized version of this tool, the North American Hornet Screening Tool, is also available, to help less experienced users who may encounter hornets or other similar-looking species within North America.