The Bornean Hornet (Vespa tropica), also known as the greater banded hornet, is a large, robust species of hornet commonly found on Borneo Island. Characterized by its striking coloration, the Bornean Hornet has a dark brown or black body with a distinct orange or reddish band across its abdomen. This band makes it easily distinguishable from other hornets and wasps in the region. Adult hornets typically measure about 24-26mm in length, making them one of the larger wasps found in Southeast Asia.
The Bornean Hornet is renowned for its aggressive nature and potent sting, which can cause significant pain and allergic reactions in humans. Despite its somewhat fearsome reputation, this hornet plays a critical role in controlling pest populations and contributing to the ecological balance of its habitat.
The Bornean Hornet primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, readily exploiting the dense, humid environments of Borneo Island. These forests provide an abundance of resources, including nesting sites, food, and ample cover from potential predators. Hornets typically build their nests in secluded, sheltered locations such as tree cavities, under rocky ledges, or within dense foliage. This preference for concealed nest sites helps protect their colonies from both predators and environmental hazards.
In addition to forests, the Bornean Hornet can sometimes be found in human-inhabited areas such as gardens and agricultural fields. Here, they often seek out sheltered spots like the eaves of buildings or abandoned structures to establish their nests. However, their presence in such areas can lead to conflicts with humans, especially if their nests are disturbed.
Despite their formidable defense mechanisms, Bornean Hornets face predation from a variety of natural enemies. Birds, particularly larger species such as bee-eaters, are common predators that actively hunt these hornets. Bee-eaters have evolved specialized techniques to catch and consume hornets, often removing the stinger before ingestion to avoid being stung.
Other insect species, including larger wasps and some praying mantises, are also known to prey on Bornean Hornets. Additionally, mammals such as bats and small mammals that can access the hornet nests may prey upon both adults and larvae. Human activity, particularly the destruction of nests, represents another significant threat to hornet populations.
Bornean Hornets are omnivorous and exhibit a diverse diet that includes both animal prey and plant matter. They are particularly effective predators of other insects, playing a crucial role in controlling pest populations. Common prey items include caterpillars, spiders, and smaller insects, which the hornets capture and bring back to the nest to feed their larvae.
Adult hornets primarily consume nectar and fruit juices, which provide them with the necessary energy to sustain their vigorous flight and hunting activities. They are often seen visiting flowering plants, where they not only feed on nectar but also facilitate pollination, albeit less efficiently than dedicated pollinators like bees.
In human-inhabited areas, Bornean Hornets have been observed scavenging on discarded food or raiding apicultural establishments for honey, occasionally leading to conflicts with beekeepers.