European Hornet

Natural Habitat

Woodlands, suburban areas, often builds nests in hollow trees, attics, or wall voids.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly hunts large insects like grasshoppers, flies, and other wasps to feed its larvae. Adults also feed on tree sap, ripe fruit, and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Social insects forming colonies that can number several hundred individuals. They are generally less aggressive than yellowjackets unless their nest is disturbed. They are also attracted to lights at night.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can deliver a painful sting, and multiple stings can be dangerous, especially to allergic individuals. They may damage trees by girdling branches to get sap. Benefits: They are natural predators of many garden pests, helping to control insect populations.

Identified on: 9/22/2025