If you live in Michigan, it is important to be aware of the different types of hornets in the state.
Several species of hornets are native to Michigan, and it is important to know how to identify them.
This blog post will explore the various types of hornets in Michigan to familiarize you with their characteristics and behaviors.
Whether you are a homeowner, outdoor enthusiast, or just curious, this article will provide the information you need about Michigan’s different types of hornets.
1. Yellowjacket
Michigan is home to various hornet species, each with unique characteristics. The most common type of hornet in Michigan is yellowjacket.
Yellowjackets are large wasps that are usually yellow and black. They build their nests in the ground and often live near human activity, such as campsites and picnic areas.
Though they can be aggressive when disturbed, they stay away from people and rarely sting unless provoked.
They are beneficial predators of garden pests and are important pollinators in gardens and agricultural fields.
2. Paper Wasp
Michigan is home to several different types of hornets. The most common type is the European hornet, a large yellow and brown insect that can grow up to an inch in length. The European hornet is native to Michigan but has also been found in other states.
Other hornets found in Michigan include the yellow jacket, baldfaced hornet, and paper Wasp. Paper wasps are a type of hornet commonly found in Michigan.
They are smaller than the European hornet, measuring just half an inch long. Paper wasps get their name from the nests they build, which are made of paper-like substances.
These types of hornets in Michigan are often seen dangling from tree branches or suspended from ceilings and porch eaves. Paper wasps are not as aggressive as other hornets and typically only attack if they feel threatened.
3. Cicada Killer
One type of hornet found in Michigan is the Cicada Killer. As their name implies, these hornets prey on cicadas.
They have large bodies and wingspans and can measure up to 2 inches long. While these hornets are intimidating, they are not aggressive and rarely sting humans.
These hornets are solitary and spend most of their time searching for cicadas. These types of hornets in Michigan are also considered beneficial insects because they help control the population of cicadas.
If you see one of these hornets buzzing around your garden or yard, don’t worry—they pose no threat to humans.
4. Baldfaced Hornet
One of the types of hornets found in Michigan is the Baldfaced Hornet. Michigan‘s large types of hornets range from 1⁄2 to 5⁄8 of an inch in length. They are dark brown with white or yellow faces that look almost bald.
The Baldfaced Hornets live in colonies containing anywhere from 50 to 500 hornets. They build large, round nests made from paper-like material made from wood fibers that they chew up and mix with saliva. They like to build these nests near human activity, often near windows, decks, or on branches of trees.
The Baldfaced Hornets are aggressive and will attack if their nest is disturbed. These types of hornets in Michigan are also known for their painful sting, which can be very dangerous for those who are allergic.
If you come across a nest, it is best to leave it alone and contact a pest control professional.
5. Wood Wasp
Michigan is home to various types of hornets, and one of the most common species in the state is Wood Wasps.
These black and yellow-striped hornets are often mistaken for Yellowjackets, but they have a few distinctive characteristics that set them apart.
Wood Wasps are usually found in areas with plenty of dead Wood, such as trees and logs. These types of hornets in Michigan use these areas to make their nests, which can be large and impressive.
These nests comprise multiple chambers typically constructed from chewed-up wood pulp and resin.
The female woodwasp will then lay her eggs inside these chambers, where they will be safe from predators.
Regarding behavior, Wood Wasps are not particularly aggressive and prefer to keep to themselves.
However, they may become agitated and sting you if you get too close to their nest. That’s why keeping your distance from any nests is important.
If you are curious about the types of hornets in Michigan, look around your yard or local park – you might be surprised by what you find!
