Few insects spark as much alarm as the black wasp insect. These dark, fast-flying creatures often get mistaken for aggressive hornets, leaving homeowners wondering: Should I be worried? At Pest Jam, we cut through the fear and reveal everything you need to know—from identifying different black wasps to understanding their behavior and when professional help is needed.
What Is a Black Wasp Insect ?
The term “black wasp” refers to several species of dark-colored wasps, including:
✔ Great Black Wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus) – A large, solitary wasp with a shiny black body.
✔ European Hornet (Vespa crabro) – A social wasp with dark brown and yellow markings.
✔ Cicada Killers (Sphecius speciosus) – Massive, ground-nesting wasps that hunt cicadas.
When people report seeing a big black wasp, they’re usually referring to one of these species.
How to Identify a Black Wasp Insect
Physical Features
✔ Color: Deep black or dark brown (some have faint yellow or white markings).
✔ Size: Ranges from ¾ to 1.5 inches (some cicada killers reach 2 inches).
✔ Wings: Dark, smoky wings that fold lengthwise at rest.
✔ Body Shape: Slender with a narrow waist, unlike fuzzy bumblebees.
If you see a black and white wasp, it might be a bald-faced hornet, which is actually a type of yellowjacket.
Nests
- Great Black Wasps dig burrows in the ground.
- European Hornets build paper nests in hollow trees or attics.
- Cicada Killers create tunnels in sandy soil.
A great black wasp nest is usually solitary, while European hornets form colonies.
Are Black Wasps Dangerous?
Sting Risk
- Great Black Wasps rarely sting unless handled.
- European Hornets can be defensive if their nest is disturbed.
- Cicada Killers have mild venom but are not aggressive.
A black wasp sting is painful but typically only dangerous to those with allergies.
Do They Damage Property?
Most black wasps don’t harm structures, but European hornets may chew wood to build nests, which can weaken sheds or eaves.
Black Wasp vs. Other Wasps
| Feature | Black Wasp | Yellowjacket | Paper Wasp |
| Color | All black | Black & yellow | Brown with yellow markings |
| Size | ¾–2 inches | ½ inch | ¾ inch |
| Aggressiveness | Low | High | Moderate |
| Nest Location | Ground | Underground/voids | Under eaves |
How to Keep Black Wasps Away
Natural Deterrents
✔ Peppermint oil (spray near entry points)
✔ Fake nests (wasps avoid competing colonies)
✔ Remove food sources (ripe fruit, open garbage)
Safe Removal
If you find a black wasp nest, consider:
✔ Night removal (wasps are less active)
✔ Professional help for large colonies
Never swat at a big black wasp—it may provoke an attack.
While black wasps look intimidating, most are harmless unless provoked. If they’re nesting near your home, Pest Jam offers safe removal solutions to keep your space pest-free.
Spot a nest? Observe first—then call the experts if needed!
