European Hornet

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

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.

Risks & Benefits

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.

Identified on: 4/11/2026