🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

Horntail Wasp

Urocerus gigas

About Horntail Wasp

A large wood wasp that injects symbiotic fungus into trees along with its eggs.

πŸ’‘

Did You Know?

The injected fungus softens the wood to make it digestible for the larvae.

How to Identify Horntail Wasp

Horntail Wasp (Urocerus gigas) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Siricidae. Adults typically measure 25-40 mm.

Horntail Wasp Habitat

Horntail Wasp is found in forests habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Horntail Wasp Diet and Feeding

Horntail Wasp feeds on fungi and moulds. Fungus-feeding insects help regulate fungal populations and contribute to decomposition processes.

Where Is Horntail Wasp Found?

Horntail Wasp can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Horntail Wasp can be found

Is Horntail Wasp Dangerous?

Horntail Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Horntail Wasp Role in Nature

Horntail Wasp plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Horntail Wasp are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.

Seasonal Activity

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Horntail Wasp

What does Horntail Wasp look like?

The Horntail Wasp typically measures 25-40 mm.

Where is Horntail Wasp found?

The Horntail Wasp is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits forests environments.

What does Horntail Wasp eat?

The Horntail Wasp feeds on fungi and moulds.

Is Horntail Wasp dangerous to humans?

The Horntail Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.

What is an interesting fact about Horntail Wasp?

The injected fungus softens the wood to make it digestible for the larvae.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Horntail Wasp (Urocerus gigas). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/horntail-wasp

MLA:
"Horntail Wasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/horntail-wasp.