European Hornet

Woodlands, gardens, and suburban areas; they often nest in hollow trees, wall voids, or attics.

Carnivorous as larvae (fed insects like flies and caterpillars); adults consume nectar, fruit juices, and tree sap.

Eusocial insects with a queen and workers. Unlike most wasps, they are active at night and attracted to lights. They are typically less aggressive than yellowjackets unless their nest is threatened.

They possess a painful sting that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Beneficially, they act as natural pest control by preying on many garden and agricultural pests.