What is a wasp?

A wasp is a type of flying insect belonging to the family Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and ants. They are often recognized by their slender and elongated bodies, narrow “waist” between the thorax and abdomen, and their two pairs of wings. Wasps are known for their ability to sting, which is used as a defense mechanism or to paralyze prey. Some species of wasps are solitary and build small nests while others are social and live in large colonies. They are mostly carnivorous and feed on other insects, spiders, and nectar from flowers. Wasps play an important role in pollination and pest control.