Can male wasps sting?

This question came to us over Twitter, and given my recent post about bee genetics I thought it was worth a discussion because it allows us to further explore the evolution of bees, wasps and ants. read more

Only females can sting, as the barb is found in the same part that lays the eggs. The easiest way to tell male and female wasps apart is to look at their antennae - female wasps have shorter antennae. read more

Unlike the honey bee, the stinger of the female wasp is not barbed, meaning it can repeatedly sting and give a predator or threat its venom.The stinger of the female wasp is also its sex organ. Male wasps do not sting, but they sometimes act as though they will by instinct. read more