| Scientific name | Vespa crabro |
|---|---|
| Group | Bees & Wasps |
| Size | 25–35 mm (up to about 1.4 in) |
| Colors | Brown and Yellow |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Trees or shrubs and Yard or patio |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | Yes |
| Risk level | Health risk |
How to identify it
The European hornet is a large member of the bees & wasps group. Two pairs of wings and, in females, a stinger at the tip of the abdomen. Check for these three features:
- Large wasp with a reddish-brown head and thorax
- Yellow abdomen with brown bands and teardrop spots
- Active at night and drawn to porch lights
About this bug
The only true hornet established in North America, a large brown-and-yellow wasp that nests in hollow trees, barns and wall voids. It often flies at night and is attracted to lights.
You'll usually find European hornets on trees and shrubs and in yards and on patios. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
European hornet stings are very painful, and colonies defend their nest, though workers are less aggressive away from it.
Our rating: Health risk, meaning it can cause medically significant bites, stings or disease.
Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.
When you'll see European hornets
European Hornets are most active in summer and fall. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: trees or shrubs and yard or patio.
About bees & wasps
The European hornet is one of the bees & wasps. Bees and wasps belong to the same order as ants. Social species such as honey bees, bumble bees, yellowjackets and hornets live in colonies with a queen, while solitary species such as mud daubers and cicada killers raise their young alone. Only females can sting, because the stinger is a modified egg-laying tube.
Social wasp colonies grow all summer and are largest and most defensive in late summer and early fall. Most colonies die off in winter, leaving only new queens to start over in spring.
What to do about it
- Keep porch lights off or use yellow bulbs near hornet activity
- Look for nests in hollow trees, sheds and wall voids
- Have large or indoor nests removed by a professional
Read the full guide: how to get rid of European hornets.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Cicada Killers are larger, reaching 50 mm, while European hornets top out around 35 mm.
Size: European Hornets are larger, reaching 35 mm, while bald-faced hornets top out around 20 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a European hornet look like?
Large wasp with a reddish-brown head and thorax. Adults measure 25–35 mm (up to about 1.4 in).
Does the European hornet bite or sting?
It does not bite. It can sting. European hornet stings are very painful, and colonies defend their nest, though workers are less aggressive away from it.
Where do European hornets live?
European Hornets live on trees and shrubs and in yards and on patios.
When are European hornets most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.