> 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 - - "One today is worth two tomorrows" Ben Franklin (0 0) ===============================================o00o==(_)==o00o== 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] ================================================================