WASP, 
287 
its colour is a tawny yellow with ferruginous and 
black bars and variegations. The nest of this 
species is generally built in the cavity of some 
decayed tree, or immediately beneath its roots; 
and not unfrequently in' timber-yards and other 
similar situations. It is of smaller size than 
that of the Wasp, and of a somewhat globular 
form, with an opening beneath; the exterior shell 
consisting of more or fewer layers of the same 
strong paper-like substance with that prepared by 
the Wasp; the cells are also of a similar nature, 
but much fewer in number., and less elegantly 
composed. The hornet, like the Wasp, is ex- 
tremely voracious, and preys on almost any kind 
of fresh animal substances which it can obtain, as 
well as on honey, fruit, &c. &c. Its sting is greatly 
to be dreaded, and is often productive of very seri- 
ous consequences. 
A highly elegant Wasp’s-Nest is sometimes 
seen during the summer season, attached or hang- 
ing as it were by its base to some straw or other 
projecting substance, from the upper part of un- 
frequented buildings or outhouses. It does not 
much exceed the size of an egg, but is of a more 
globular form, and consists of several concentric 
bells, with considerable intervals between each, 
the interior alone being entire, and furnished with 
a small round orifice ; the rest reaching only 
about two thirds from the base of the nest. In 
the centre of the complete or entire bell is situat- 
ed the congeries of cells, built round a small 
central pillar attached to the base : the cells are not 
