Canada is home to a variety of wasp species, some of which can be quite large and intimidating. In this article, we will explore the top 3 largest wasps buzzing in Canada, according to the search results.
We will provide information on each species, including their size, behavior, and potential impact on humans and the environment. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply want to be aware of the wasps in your area, this article will provide valuable insights into the world of Canadian wasps.
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Top 3 Largest Wasps Buzzing In Canada
Eastern Cicada Killer Wasp
The Eastern Cicada Killer Wasp (Sphecius speciosus) is a large digger wasp species that is found in several locations in the province of Ontario, Canada. It is an extremely rare species in Ontario, but it is considered beneficial because it preys on cicadas, which can damage trees.
The Eastern Cicada Killer Wasp is often referred to as the cicada killer or the cicada hawk because it uses its stinger to paralyze cicadas, which it then carries back to its nest to feed its young. The wasp is generally not aggressive towards humans and usually flies away when swatted at, rather than attacking.
Bald-Faced Hornet
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The Bald-Faced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) is a species of wasp in the genus Dolichovespula and a member of the eusocial, cosmopolitan family Vespidae. It is commonly known by many colloquial names, including bald-faced hornet, bald-faced aerial yellowjacket, bald-faced wasp, bald hornet, white-faced hornet, blackjacket, white-tailed hornet, spruce wasp, and bull wasp.
The Bald-Faced Hornet gets its name from the characteristic white markings on its face, as the word “bald” in English is derived from the word “piebald”. It is technically a species of yellowjacket wasp, but it is not one of the true hornets, which are in the genus Vespa.
The Bald-Faced Hornet is found in most of the 48 contiguous states and D.C., throughout Canada and in Alaska, and is the most common of the species in Dolichovespula in Pennsylvania.
Description:
– The Bald-Faced Hornet is a species of wasp in the genus Dolichovespula and a member of the eusocial, cosmopolitan family Vespidae.
– It is commonly known by many colloquial names, including bald-faced hornet, bald-faced aerial yellowjacket, bald-faced wasp, bald hornet, white-faced hornet, blackjacket, white-tailed hornet, spruce wasp, and bull wasp.
– The Bald-Faced Hornet gets its name from the characteristic white markings on its face, as the word “bald” in English is derived from the word “piebald”.
– It is technically a species of yellowjacket wasp, but it is not one of the true hornets, which are in the genus Vespa.
– The Bald-Faced Hornet is found in most of the 48 contiguous states and D.C., throughout Canada and in Alaska, and is the most common of the species in Dolichovespula in Pennsylvania.
Behavior:
– The Bald-Faced Hornet is an aerial yellowjacket and builds nests in bushes and trees, sometimes on the outside of buildings, and produces the characteristic football-shaped, grey papery nests.
– The queen and her offspring range in size from half an inch to three-quarters of an inch.
– The Bald-Faced Hornet is known to be aggressive and can sting repeatedly if its nest is disturbed.
– It feeds on nectar and other insects, including flies and caterpillars.
Impact:
– The Bald-Faced Hornet can be a nuisance to humans if its nest is located near a home or other inhabited area.
– Its sting can be painful and cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
– The Bald-Faced Hornet is considered beneficial because it preys on other insects, including flies and caterpillars.
Northern Giant Hornet
The Northern Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia) is the largest hornet species in the world, measuring 1.5-2 inches in length. It is native to temperate and tropical East Asia, South Asia, Mainland Southeast Asia, and parts of the Russian Far East.
In late 2019, it was discovered in the Pacific Northwest of North America, with a few more additional sightings in 2020, and nests found in 2021, prompting concern that it could become an invasive species.
Since its discovery in North America, the scientific literature and official government sources refer to this species by its established common name, Asian giant hornet, whilst the mainstream media have taken to using the nickname “murder hornet”.
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In July 2022, the Entomological Society of America stated that they will adopt the common name northern giant hornet for the species. The Northern Giant Hornet is a social wasp species that builds its nest underground, which makes locating and removing the nest a challenge.
Description:
– The Northern Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia) is the largest hornet species in the world, measuring 1.5-2 inches in length.
– It is native to temperate and tropical East Asia, South Asia, Mainland Southeast Asia, and parts of the Russian Far East.
– Since its discovery in North America, the scientific literature and official government sources refer to this species by its established common name, Asian giant hornet, whilst the mainstream media have taken to using the nickname “murder hornet”.
– In July 2022, the Entomological Society of America stated that they will adopt the common name northern giant hornet for the species.
Behavior:
– The Northern Giant Hornet is a social wasp species that builds its nest underground, which makes locating and removing the nest a challenge.
– The queens, which are only found outside the nest in the spring, are about 2.25 inches (5.5 cm) in length. Workers are about 1.5 inches (3.5 cm) in length and can be found foraging outside the nest spring through fall.
– The Northern Giant Hornet preys on honeybees and destroys their hives.
– The sting of the Northern Giant Hornet is extremely painful and can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
Impact:
– The Northern Giant Hornet is considered an invasive species in North America and poses a threat to honeybees and other pollinators.
– The sting of the Northern Giant Hornet is extremely painful and can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
– The Washington State Department of Agriculture has set up a baited trap system for surveying populations of this pest.
FAQS
1. What are the top 3 largest wasps buzzing in Canada?
According to the search results, the top 3 largest wasps buzzing in Canada are the Eastern Cicada Killer Wasp, the Bald-Faced Hornet, and the Northern Giant Hornet.
2. Are these wasps dangerous to humans?
The Eastern Cicada Killer Wasp and the Bald-Faced Hornet are generally not aggressive towards humans, but the Bald-Faced Hornet can be aggressive if its nest is disturbed. The Northern Giant Hornet is considered an invasive species and its sting is extremely painful and can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
3. What should I do if I find a wasp nest on my property?
It is recommended to contact a pest control company to safely remove the nest. Do not attempt to remove the nest yourself, as this can be dangerous.
4. Why are there more wasps in the summer?
According to a CTV News article in the search results, wasps are more active in the summer because it is their breeding season and they are searching for food to feed their young.
5. What is the difference between a hornet and a wasp?
Hornets are a type of wasp, but they are generally larger and have more potent venom than other wasps. Bald-Faced Hornets are technically a species of yellowjacket wasp, but they are not one of the true hornets, which are in the genus Vespa.
6. What is the Northern Giant Hornet?
The Northern Giant Hornet is the largest hornet species in the world, measuring 1.5-2 inches in length. It is native to Asia but was discovered in North America in 2019 and is considered an invasive species. Its sting is extremely painful and can cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.
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Category: Animals
