European Hornet

Natural Habitat

Typically found in hollow trees, barns, attics, or hollow walls. They favor forested areas or areas with plenty of vegetation.

Diet & Feeding

Adults primarily feed on sugary liquids like nectar and fruit juices; however, they hunt other insects like flies, bees, and grasshoppers to feed their larvae.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike many other wasps, they are active at night and are frequently attracted to lights. They live in social colonies with a queen and worker hierarchy.

Risks & Benefits

They can deliver a painful sting if the nest is threatened; however, they are generally less aggressive than yellowjackets. They are beneficial for controlling garden pests.

Identified on: 3/12/2026