26 Types of Wasps and Hornets

Trying to figure out what kind of wasp or “hornet” you’re seeing in the yard? This guide covers 25 common types of wasps and hornets (with photos where available), plus quick ID tips like body shape, nesting habits, and how likely they are to sting. Not all species below live in North America—some are mostly Asian or European—but seeing them in a list makes it easier to match what you’ve found.

Important: If you’re allergic to stings, or a nest is inside a wall/attic or near a doorway, don’t try to remove it yourself—contact a licensed pest professional.

Fast ID: wasp vs. bee vs. “hornet”

People often use “wasp,” “yellowjacket,” and “hornet” interchangeably, but a few quick clues help narrow things down:

• Bees tend to be fuzzier and more flower-focused (many carry visible pollen). Most bees are less aggressive away from the nest.
• Wasps are usually smoother and more “waisted,” often hunting other insects or scavenging. Many can sting multiple times.
• Hornets are wasps, but “hornet” may mean different things depending on where you live (see the hornet section below).

If you’re trying to tell common backyard lookalikes apart, this helps: types of bees.

Types of wasps

There are thousands of wasp species in North America alone. Most are beneficial because they prey on pest insects (and many also visit flowers). Only a smaller group commonly causes conflicts with people—usually the social species that defend nests or those attracted to food and trash.

If you’re dealing with insects nesting in turf or soil, focus on identification first; many solitary ground-nesters are harmless. If you still need intervention, see: organic lawn insect killer options. You can also support natural balance by attracting beneficial insects in your garden.

1. Great Black Wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus)

The great black wasp is a large, glossy-black solitary wasp found across much of North America. Adults commonly visit flowers for nectar, while females hunt insects (often katydids/grasshoppers) to provision underground nests. They can sting, but they’re typically not aggressive unless handled or threatened.

ID tips: mostly all-black body, smoky dark wings, and a long, narrow “thread-waist” look. Where you’ll see them: gardens, meadows, and around flowering plants in summer.

2. Black Shield Wasp (Vespa bicolor)

The black shield wasp is a social species in the genus Vespa (true hornets) found in parts of Asia. It’s known to prey on a range of insects and may be drawn to human food outdoors, which can create conflicts around patios and markets.

ID tips: dark body with contrasting yellowish markings; robust hornet-like build. As with other social Vespa, avoid approaching nests.

3. Eastern Cicada Killer (Sphecius speciosus)

Eastern cicada killers are large solitary wasps that dig burrows in soil and stock them with cicadas for their young. They look intimidating and may buzz people near nesting areas, but they’re usually far less aggressive than social wasps. Conflicts often happen when many burrows appear in sandy patches, garden edges, or near patios.

ID tips: big (often around 1–1.5 inches), black abdomen with yellow banding, and amber-tinted wings. Nest clue: noticeable soil “mounds” at burrow entrances in open, sunny ground.

4. Ichneumon Wasps (family Ichneumonidae)

Ichneumon wasps are a huge group of parasitoid wasps that help control pests such as caterpillars and wood-boring larvae. Many species have long antennae, slender bodies, and (in females) a long ovipositor used to lay eggs in or on hosts. Despite looking “stinger-like,” the ovipositor is typically for egg-laying, and most ichneumon wasps are not a stinging threat to people.

ID tips: long antennae, slim build, often seen hovering around plants searching for hosts. Garden value: excellent natural pest control.

5. Mud Daubers (various genera)

Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build nests from mud—often as tube-like cells under eaves, in sheds, garages, and other protected spots. They stock each cell with paralyzed spiders for their larvae. They’re usually calm around people and are less likely to sting than social wasps.

ID tips: very narrow “thread waist,” long legs, and a habit of carrying mud pellets. Nest clue: clusters of dried mud tubes attached to walls/ceilings.

6. Paper Wasps (genus Polistes and relatives)

Paper wasps are social wasps best known for their open-comb nests (you can see the hexagonal cells). They often nest under eaves, porch ceilings, and similar sheltered overhangs. Adults hunt caterpillars and other insects, which can help in gardens—but they will defend a nest if you get too close.

ID tips: long legs that dangle in flight, slender bodies, and open, umbrella-like nests. When stings happen: usually when a nest is disturbed.

7. Potter Wasps (subfamily Eumeninae)

Potter wasps are mostly solitary wasps named for the small clay “pots” or mud cells many species build for their young. They provision nests with caterpillars and other soft-bodied insects, making them helpful for natural pest control. They’re generally not aggressive around people.

ID tips: often small-to-medium sized with variable yellow/black patterns. Nest clue: small mud pots or sealed mud cells on walls, rocks, or sheltered surfaces.

8. Sand Wasps (tribe Bembicini)

“Sand wasps” refers to a group (a tribe) of solitary wasps that often nest in sandy soil. Many species hunt flies or other insects and can be seen patrolling open ground on hot days. Because this is a broad group, appearance varies—some are boldly striped, others are more muted.

ID tips: fast-flying hunters over sand or bare soil; nests are usually simple burrows. Sting risk: generally low unless handled.

9. Spider Wasps (family Pompilidae)

Spider wasps are solitary hunters that paralyze spiders to feed their developing larvae. Many have dark bodies and long legs, and they often run across the ground or vegetation in a purposeful, searching manner. Some species can deliver very painful stings, but most aren’t aggressive unless threatened.

ID tips: long legs, quick movements, and behavior focused on searching crevices/ground for spiders. Adults often drink nectar from flowers.

10. Tarantula Hawk Wasps (Pepsis and Hemipepsis spp.)

Tarantula hawks are large spider wasps famous for hunting tarantulas. They are often metallic blue-black with orange wings (varies by species). Their sting is widely regarded as extremely painful, but they’re typically not aggressive toward people and usually sting only when grabbed or stepped on.

ID tips: large size, long legs, and bright orange wings on many species. Where found: warm regions in the Americas and elsewhere, often around deserts, grasslands, and gardens.

11. Yellowjackets (genus Vespula and Dolichovespula)

Yellowjackets are social wasps that commonly become a problem around patios, trash cans, and outdoor eating—especially late summer and fall when they scavenge for sugar and protein. Depending on the species, nests may be underground (old rodent burrows) or in wall voids and other cavities. They can sting repeatedly and will defend nests aggressively.

ID tips: bright yellow-and-black patterning; quick, direct flight; often seen inspecting food. Nest clue: steady traffic of wasps entering/exiting a ground hole or wall gap.

12. American Pelecinid Wasp (Pelecinus polyturator)

This striking wasp is best known for the female’s extremely long, slender abdomen used to lay eggs on beetle larvae (often scarab grubs) in soil. It’s usually seen in late summer into fall in wooded edges, meadows, and sometimes suburban gardens. Despite the dramatic look, it’s not typically a household pest.

ID tips: glossy black body; females have a noticeably long abdomen. Behavior clue: slow, hovering flight and searching low vegetation/ground.

13. Giant Woodwasp / Banded Horntail (Urocerus gigas)

Despite the common “wood wasp” name, horntails are actually sawflies (not stinging wasps). They can look intimidating because females have a long horn-like projection/ovipositor used to lay eggs in wood. Adults are generally harmless to people and don’t sting.

ID tips: large, cylindrical body; yellow-and-black banding; a “spike” at the rear (especially noticeable in females). Where found: around conifers and dead/dying wood.

Types of True Hornets (Genus Vespa) and Common “Hornets”

All hornets are wasps, but not every insect called a “hornet” is a true hornet. In everyday North American English, “hornet” sometimes gets applied to large aerial yellowjackets, especially the bald-faced hornet. The species below includes both Vespa (true hornets) and commonly named “hornets” outside of Vespa.

Related: What do hornets eat?

14. True Hornets vs. “Hornets” in North America (Genus Vespa vs. Dolichovespula/Vespula)

Here’s the quick taxonomy clarification that prevents a lot of confusion:

• True hornets belong to the genus Vespa (for example, the European hornet, Vespa crabro).
• The bald-faced hornet is Dolichovespula maculata—an aerial yellowjacket, not a true hornet.
• Yellowjackets are mostly Vespula and Dolichovespula species; many are ground nesters, but some build aerial nests.

Practically speaking, the management advice is similar for all social wasps: don’t swat at them, avoid quick movements near a nest, and don’t attempt removal without the right protective equipment—especially if the nest is large or in a structure.

15. Northern Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia) (aka Asian giant hornet)

Vespa mandarinia is the largest true hornet species and is native to parts of East and Southeast Asia. The Entomological Society of America adopted “northern giant hornet” as the standardized common name; “Asian giant hornet” remains a widely recognized older name. This species is known for predation on other insects, including honey bees, and for potent stings if a nest is threatened.

ID tips: very large hornet; broad orange head; thick, banded abdomen. If you suspect a giant hornet in a new area, follow local extension/agency reporting guidance rather than attempting to confirm up close.

16. Bald-Faced Hornet / Bald-Faced Aerial Yellowjacket (Dolichovespula maculata) (not a true hornet)

The bald-faced hornet is a large, black-and-white aerial yellowjacket that builds enclosed paper nests, often in trees and shrubs and sometimes on structures. It can be very defensive near the nest, especially when vibrations (mowers, trimmers) or sudden movement occur nearby.

ID tips: black body with bold white facial markings; large gray papery nest with a single entrance hole. Safety note: give nests a wide berth—defensive behavior can escalate quickly.

17. Black-Bellied Hornet (Vespa basalis)

This true hornet is native to parts of East Asia. Like other Vespa species, it lives in social colonies and will defend the nest if disturbed. Because distribution reports can change over time, rely on local extension services or government resources for current confirmed range.

ID tips: robust hornet build; dark abdomen (the “black-bellied” look). Best practice: avoid nest disturbance and keep food sealed outdoors.

18. Black-Tailed Hornet (Vespa ducalis)

The black-tailed hornet is a true hornet found across parts of Asia. It’s often described as less aggressive than some other large Vespa species unless its nest is approached. As with all social wasps, defensive behavior is most likely near the nest entrance.

ID tips: hornet-sized body with a notably darker “tail” segment toward the end of the abdomen.

19. European Hornet (Vespa crabro)

The European hornet is a true hornet established in parts of North America as well as native across Europe and Asia. It’s large and robust, often brownish with yellow markings, and may be active at dusk or at night around lights. Nests are usually in hollow trees, wall voids, and other cavities.

ID tips: big, chestnut-brown tones with yellow abdominal bands. Conflict point: nests inside structures are best handled by professionals.

20. Greater Banded Hornet (Vespa tropica)

The greater banded hornet is a tropical/subtropical true hornet found in parts of Asia and other warm regions. It often nests in cavities such as tree hollows or underground spaces. Like many hornets, it’s most dangerous when the nest is disturbed rather than when it’s foraging.

ID tips: dark abdomen with a bold contrasting band; strong, heavy-bodied flight.

21. Japanese Yellow Hornet (Vespa simillima)

This true hornet is associated with Japan and nearby regions. It is a predatory, social insect that can help reduce populations of other insects but can also pose a sting risk when nesting near people. As with other Vespa, avoid close nest approaches.

ID tips: prominent yellow head and hornet-sized body with banding on the abdomen.

22. Lesser Banded Hornet (Vespa affinis)

The lesser banded hornet is a true hornet found in parts of Asia. Color patterns can vary, but many individuals show a dark body with a contrasting band. Like other social hornets, it may forage around food sources and will defend the nest vigorously.

ID tips: dark hornet with a bold contrasting band; strong, direct flight.

23. Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis)

The oriental hornet is a true hornet found across parts of the Middle East, North Africa, and surrounding regions. It forms seasonal colonies and forages on a mix of insect prey and sugary foods. Where it overlaps with apiaries, it can be a concern for honey bees.

ID tips: warm reddish-brown tones with yellow markings; powerful, loud flight. Sting note: painful; seek medical care promptly for allergic reactions or multiple stings.

24. Lesser Banded Hornet (Vespa luctuosa)

Vespa luctuosa is a true hornet associated with the Philippines. As with other Vespa, it’s a social species that can be dangerous when a nest is disturbed. Venom effects can vary widely based on individual sensitivity, number of stings, and location of stings.

Safety note: Any severe symptoms (trouble breathing, facial swelling, widespread hives, dizziness) after a sting should be treated as a medical emergency.

25. Vespa soror

Vespa soror is a large true hornet found in parts of Southeast Asia. Like other large Vespa, it is a capable predator of other insects and will defend its nest. Encounters are most likely in rural or forest-edge habitats where nests are established away from heavy human traffic.

26. Yellow-Legged Hornet (Vespa velutina)

The yellow-legged hornet is a true hornet native to parts of Asia and a high-profile invasive species in some regions. It can threaten honey bees and may nest in trees or other elevated locations, with colonies reaching large sizes. Because this species is regulated in many places, suspected sightings should be reported to local authorities rather than handled by homeowners.

ID tips: dark body with contrasting bands and distinctly yellow legs. What to do: keep your distance and follow your state/province reporting guidance.

What to do if you find a wasp or hornet nest

Your best next step depends on where the nest is, how big it is, and how the insects behave:

• Small, solitary nests (mud daubers/potter wasps) in low-traffic areas are often safe to leave alone and can help reduce pests.
• Social nests (paper wasps, yellowjackets, bald-faced hornets, true hornets) near doors, play areas, or inside structures are higher risk.
• Underground yellowjacket nests are especially hazardous because you can trigger them accidentally with mowing or walking.

If you need to reduce stinging-insect pressure around the yard, start with prevention: keep trash sealed, clean up fallen fruit, and cover sweet drinks outdoors. For deeper reading on hornet behavior and food attraction, see what hornets eat.

Conclusion: which ones are most likely to bother you?

For most homeowners, the biggest day-to-day culprits are yellowjackets and paper wasps because they’re social, nest near structures, and defend colonies. Many of the other wasps on this list—like mud daubers, potter wasps, and cicada killers—look scary but are usually solitary and less likely to sting unless handled.

If you want, tell me what the insect looks like (size, colors/markings, and where the nest is) and I can help narrow it down from the list.

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Sources (selected): University of Minnesota Extension (Great black wasp) | Entomological Society of America (Northern giant hornet common name) | National Pest Management Association (Bald-faced hornets) | USDA APHIS (Yellow-legged hornet) | Britannica (Wasp overview)