About European Hornet
The largest European wasp, with a brown and yellow striped body and reddish-brown head and thorax. Despite its fearsome appearance, it is relatively docile for a social wasp.
Did You Know?
European hornets are one of the few wasp species that actively hunt at night, attracted to lights where they capture other insects.
How to Identify European Hornet
European Hornet (Vespa crabro) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Vespidae. Adults typically measure 25-35 mm.
European Hornet Habitat
European Hornet is found in orchards habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
European Hornet Diet and Feeding
European Hornet feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves with specialised mouthparts. Sap feeders extract nutrients directly from the plant's vascular system.
Where Is European Hornet Found?
European Hornet can be found in Europe, Asia, North America, where it inhabits orchards environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where European Hornet can be found
Is European Hornet Dangerous?
European Hornet belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
European Hornet Role in Nature
European Hornet is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About European Hornet
What does European Hornet look like?
The European Hornet typically measures 25-35 mm.
Where is European Hornet found?
The European Hornet is found in Europe, Asia, North America and typically inhabits orchards environments.
What does European Hornet eat?
The European Hornet feeds on plant sap by piercing stems and leaves.
Is European Hornet dangerous to humans?
The European Hornet belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
What is an interesting fact about European Hornet?
European hornets are one of the few wasp species that actively hunt at night, attracted to lights where they capture other insects.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). European Hornet (Vespa crabro). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/european-hornet
MLA:
"European Hornet." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/european-hornet.