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European Hornet

Identification & Control

(Vespa crabro)

Large reddish-brown and yellow hornet with a robust body and powerful flight.

Large, loud, and most active when the lights come on.

Associated Species

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Physical Appearance

  • Very large wasp/hornet
  • Reddish‑brown areas plus yellow-and-brown banding
  • Often mistaken for something scarier just because of size

Common Locations

  • Enclosed cavities: hollow trees, wall voids, attics
  • Sometimes outbuildings and soffits

Why They're a Problem

Less “picnic-crazy” than yellowjackets, but size + enclosed nest locations mean handling should be careful and controlled.

Homeowner Tips

Less “picnic-crazy” than yellowjackets, but size + enclosed nest locations mean handling should be careful and controlled.

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European Hornet

Wasps

  • Very large wasp/hornet
  • Reddish‑brown areas plus yellow-and-brown banding
  • Often mistaken for something scarier just because of size
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