Lesser Banded Hornet - Animal India

The Lesser Banded Hornet (Vespa affinis) is a small to medium-sized hornet common in tropical and subtropical Asia. It is found in many countries, including Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines (specifically Palawan). The hornet has a brownish-red or black head, pubescent (hairy) compound eyes, black ocelli (simple eyes), and dark brown antennae, which are usually pale brown underneath. Queens can reach up to 3 cm, males 2.5 cm, and workers average between 2 and 2.5 cm in length. The Lesser Banded Hornet is found in grassy areas, forests, wastelands, and beaches. It preys on flies, which can be pests. These hornets build their nests in tall trees or abandoned henhouses. The sting of a Lesser Banded Hornet can cause pain, swelling, and redness at the site. The area may also become itchy and sensitive to touch. If stung by a hornet, one should clean the affected area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to dull the pain and reduce swelling, and elevate the sting site if it is on an arm or leg. Over-the-counter medications like antihistamines or corticosteroid creams can also be taken or applied to reduce symptoms near the sting. A Lesser Banded Hornet was observed on a wall in a house at Tehatta, West Bengal, India, on April 6, 2024. (Photo by Soumyabrata Roy/NurPhoto via Getty Images)