About Yellow Hornet
Known as 'ke-buchi-suzumebachi' in Japanese, a common hornet in Japan and Korea. Builds large paper nests in trees and under eaves. Less aggressive than the giant hornet but still capable of painful stings.
Did You Know?
This species is responsible for more wasp stings in Japan than any other species because it frequently builds nests near human habitations.
How to Identify Yellow Hornet
Yellow Hornet (Vespa simillima) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Vespidae. Adults typically measure 21-28 mm.
Yellow Hornet Habitat
Yellow Hornet is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across East Asia, Japan/Korea. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Yellow Hornet Diet and Feeding
Yellow Hornet feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.
Where Is Yellow Hornet Found?
Yellow Hornet can be found in East Asia, Japan/Korea, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Yellow Hornet can be found
Is Yellow Hornet Dangerous?
Yellow Hornet 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.
Yellow Hornet Role in Nature
Yellow Hornet is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Yellow Hornet
What does Yellow Hornet look like?
The Yellow Hornet typically measures 21-28 mm.
Where is Yellow Hornet found?
The Yellow Hornet is found in East Asia, Japan/Korea and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Yellow Hornet eat?
The Yellow Hornet feeds on fruits.
Is Yellow Hornet dangerous to humans?
The Yellow Hornet 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 Yellow Hornet?
This species is responsible for more wasp stings in Japan than any other species because it frequently builds nests near human habitations.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Yellow Hornet (Vespa simillima). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/yellow-hornet
MLA:
"Yellow Hornet." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/yellow-hornet.