European Hornet

Natural Habitat

They are typically found in wooded areas, forests, and suburban environments where trees and human structures provide suitable nesting sites. Nests are often built in hollow trees, attics, wall voids, or sheds. They are common in Europe, parts of Asia, and North America (where they were introduced).

Diet & Feeding

Adult European Hornets feed on nectar, sap, fruit, and other sweet substances. They are also predatory, hunting a variety of insects, including flies, grasshoppers, and other wasps, to feed to their larvae. The larvae, in turn, produce a sugary secretion that the adults consume.

Behavior Patterns

European Hornets are social insects that live in colonies, typically building nests in hollow trees, wall voids, or attics. They are active during the day, foraging for food. Unlike many other hornets, they are also known to be active at night, especially around lights. They can be aggressive if their nest is disturbed.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: European Hornets can deliver a painful sting, and unlike bees, they can sting multiple times. Their venom can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, similar to other bee and wasp stings. They can be aggressive when their nest is approached or disturbed. Benefits: European Hornets are beneficial predators, controlling populations of other insects, including some agricultural pests. They also play a role in pollination by visiting flowers for nectar.

Identified on: 8/28/2025