Wood wasps

Definition

Large, brightly colored insects in the family Siricidae, commonly known as horntails, that bore into hard wood or conifer trees to lay their eggs.

Etymology

From the Old English word 'wudu' meaning 'wood' and 'waeps,' which is related to 'wasp'.

Example

Wood wasps are known for their distinctive horn-like projection at the tip of their abdomen.

Synonyms

• Horntails

Related Terms

• Sawflies
• Hymenoptera

Usage Notes

Wood wasps are considered pests in some regions due to their wood-boring behavior.