The European Hornet is the largest European eusocial wasp. Females have stingers which can be very harmful. This species is not particularly aggressive except when defending the nest, and care must be taken when in its proximity, as the stings are quite painful. As with most stinging insects, European hornets will sting in self-defense when grabbed or stepped on. European hornets are often mischaracterized as very aggressive and dangerous, and are greatly feared by some people. Some people believe that "three stings from the European hornet can kill an adult human, and that seven can kill a horse". These are common myths - a sting from a European hornet isn't any more dangerous than any other wasp sting, and European hornets are less aggressive than other wasps.

 

European hornets are attracted to lights at night, but are not attracted to human foods and food wastes. However, they can totally destroy fruits, such as apples, while the fruit is still on the tree. The queen measures 25 to 50 mm long; males and workers are smaller. European hornets rarely build nests that are free hanging or in unprotected areas. Frequently, the nest is built at the cavity opening, rather than deep within. As winter approaches, the workers die off. The future queens abandon the nest and seek out shelter in protected places, such as under loose bark, in rotting stumps, and hollow.

 

Control is best achieved by applying a pesticide directly into the nest at dusk. Use any aerosol "Wasp & Hornet" spray that propels the insecticide about 10-15 feet. Direct the spray into the nest opening for 5-10 seconds, then move quickly away from the area to avoid any of the wasps that may emerge from the nest. We advise the use of professional pest control services when controlling a hornet nest.