> Message text written by Discussion of Bee Biology
> >Greetings:I received this message and I am hoping someone can help me I.D.
> this bee"......
>
> The bald bodies, large size and nocturnal activity suggest to me that they
> were not bees at all. In Europe, my guess would be the hornet Vespa crabo.
> Is this species is present in the US?
 
The hornet Vespa crabo is present in the US.  It was imported some how
several years ago and at least in the soutern part of Indiana has been
identified frequently.   It is a true hornet and as far as I know is the
only one that will fly at night.  It is frequently attracted to porch
lights.  Sometimes it will come inside when a door is opened.  It can and
does sting and should be treated with respect.  The one good thing that
about them is that they prefer deep woods and do not normally nest in
areas of human habitation.
 
If you want positive identification you should locate your local Cooperative
Extension Service Office.  There is one located in almost all counties
in the United States.
 
Hope that this is helpful.
 
Charlie
 
 
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"One today is worth two tomorrows" Ben Franklin     (0 0)
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Charles R. Bradley
Extension Educator
Marshall County Extension Office
112 W. Jefferson Street  Room 304
Plymouth, IN 46563
Phone:  219-935-8545
Fax:    219-935-8612
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
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