Q&A Categories

Difference between Bees and Hornets

Oct

6

2011

Difference between Bees and Hornets

In: Disease Asked By: daniel [554 Orange Star Level]
Answer #1

Hornets and bees are associated with pain, especially to those who are allergic to these two insects. As such, if you were to ask a person suffering from an allergy due to hornet or bee stings about the differences between these insects, it is likely you will not get much information. The sting from these insects is known for causing anaphylactic trauma. Continue reading to uncover the differences between hornets and bees.

1. Reason for stinging

Undoubtedly, hornets and bees have a bad tendency of stinging unsuspecting invaders. However, they both have varying reasons for their stinging behaviors. Whereas bees sting people so as to safeguard their nests, hornets normally attack people devoid of being provoked. Interestingly though is that bees die after stinging someone, while a hornet can withdraw its stinger and fly away once it has stung someone.

2. Physical differences

Physically, hornets are bigger and less hairy than bees. In general, bees have more hair, which they use for gathering pollen. Another issue that differentiates these two is how they raise the larvae. Bees normally feed their young expecting nothing in return but this does not apply to hornets. Hornets practice mutual feeding as they expect a certain fluid from the babies.

3. Value

Bees have more value to humans, but hornets are of no economic value. That is why humans build bee hives and guard them against attack from external forces. Bees produce honey and wax that has several beneficial uses for humans. The nest appearance of these insects also differs as bees construct their nests from wax, but hornets use wood pulp for nest making.

Lastly, hornets can be said to be more aggressive than bees as they sting people without even being harassed. Seek medical assistance if you are stung with either of these two insects to prevent complications.

Answers Answered By: daniel [554 Orange Star Level]
Share

Answer this Question

You must be Logged In to post an Answer.

Not a member yet? Sign Up Now »


Become our fan

Star Points Scale

Earn points for Asking and Answering Questions!

Grey Sta Levelr [1 - 25 Grey Star Level]
Green Star Level [26 - 50 Green Star Level]
Blue Star Level [51 - 500 Blue Star Level]
Orange Star Level [501 - 5000 Orange Star Level]
Red Star Level [5001 - 25000 Red Star Level]
Black Star Level [25001+ Black Star Level]