European Hornets

About European Hornets

European Hornets (Vespa crabro) are large, social wasps native to Europe but introduced to North America in the 1800s. These hornets are known for their impressive size and can be quite intimidating due to their aggressive behavior when threatened. Unlike other wasps, European Hornets are active during the day and night, and they often prey on insects, which makes them beneficial for controlling pest populations. However, their aggressive nature and tendency to build nests in human structures make them a potential problem in residential areas.

What Do European Hornets Look Like?

European Hornets are among the largest wasps, measuring about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. They have a reddish-brown head and thorax, with a yellow and black striped abdomen that is similar to, but more robust than, that of yellowjackets. Their wings are reddish-brown, and their large, powerful mandibles are designed for capturing prey and defending their nests. European Hornets have a distinct appearance due to their size, coloration, and loud, buzzing flight. Their size and aggressive behavior make them easily distinguishable from other wasps and bees.

Facts About European Hornets Gestation

European Hornets have a lifecycle that begins in the spring when a fertilized queen emerges from hibernation and starts building a nest. The queen lays eggs that hatch into larvae within a few days. These larvae are fed by the queen until they pupate and emerge as worker hornets, which then take over the duties of nest building and foraging. The queen continues to lay eggs throughout the summer, with the colony reaching its peak size in late summer or early fall. As the season progresses, new queens and males are produced, and after mating, these queens will hibernate, while the rest of the colony dies off as the weather cools.

European Hornets Habitat and Behavior

European Hornets prefer to build their nests in dark, protected areas, such as hollow trees, attics, wall voids, and abandoned structures. They are social insects that live in colonies, which can consist of several hundred individuals. European Hornets are unique among wasps in that they are active both day and night, often hunting insects and other arthropods to feed their larvae. While they are generally beneficial for controlling pest populations, European Hornets can become aggressive if their nest is disturbed. They are also known to damage trees and shrubs by stripping bark to access sap, which they use as a food source.

What Are 5 Unique Facts About European Hornets?

1. European Hornets are the only true hornet species in North America, distinct from yellowjackets and other wasps.
2. Unlike most wasps, European Hornets are active at night and are attracted to light, often flying around outdoor lights and windows.
3. They have a potent sting and can sting multiple times, making them particularly dangerous if they feel threatened.
4. European Hornets build paper nests made from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva, usually in hidden locations like hollow trees or attics.
5. Despite their fearsome reputation, European Hornets play a crucial role in controlling pest insect populations, as they are effective predators of flies, bees, and other insects.

What Are the Problems Related to European Hornets?

European Hornets can cause several problems, particularly when they build nests near human dwellings. Their large size and aggressive behavior make them a significant threat if they feel their nest is disturbed, and they can sting multiple times, which can be dangerous, especially for those allergic to insect stings. European Hornets are also known to strip bark from trees and shrubs to access sap, which can damage ornamental plants and trees. Additionally, their tendency to build nests in attics, wall voids, and other structures can lead to structural damage and make removal difficult and hazardous. Managing these issues requires careful handling and often professional intervention.

What Are the Risks Associated with European Hornets?

The primary risks associated with European Hornets involve their aggressive behavior and potent sting. They can become highly defensive if they perceive a threat to their nest, and their sting is painful and can be dangerous, especially for individuals with allergies. Multiple stings can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. European Hornets can also pose a risk to property, as their nests can damage the structures in which they are built, and their habit of stripping bark from trees can harm vegetation. Their presence near homes or recreational areas increases the risk of encounters with humans and pets, making their management crucial for safety.

Get Rid of European Hornets Treatment

To get rid of European Hornets, start by identifying the location of the nest, which is often hidden in trees, attics, or wall voids. It’s crucial to approach nest removal with caution, as these hornets are aggressive and can sting multiple times. If the nest is accessible and you feel confident, apply a wasp and hornet spray directly into the nest entrance during the evening when the hornets are less active. Wear protective clothing to minimize the risk of stings. For nests in difficult-to-reach or dangerous locations, it’s best to contact a professional pest control service to ensure safe and effective removal. Always avoid disturbing the nest without proper precautions.

European Hornets Prevention Advice

Preventing European Hornets from becoming a problem involves regular maintenance and vigilance. Inspect your property regularly for signs of hornet activity, particularly in attics, wall voids, and hollow trees where they might build nests. Seal any cracks, gaps, or openings in your home’s exterior to prevent hornets from entering and establishing a nest indoors. Keep food sources, like trash and pet food, sealed to avoid attracting hornets. Reduce outdoor lighting at night, as European Hornets are attracted to light. If you notice hornets foraging on your property, act quickly to locate and remove any nests before the colony grows large and becomes more dangerous to manage.