| Appearance |
 Golden
brown with yellow abdominal stripes; 1- to 1-1/2 inches. |
| Habitat |
|
European hornets are social wasps which form colonies that live for one year.
European hornets like to build their paper
nests in hollow trees, barns and out buildings. However, they will also
nest inside the walls, attic or chimney of buildings. Nests may also be
constructed on the sides of buildings. Like yellowjackets and
bald-faced hornets, European hornets aggressively defend their colony
if it is disturbed. Loud vibrating noises from lawnmowers and leaf
blowers can cause hornet workers to sting people and pets. Colonies of European hornets may contain several hundred workers.
|
| Diet |
| European hornets feed on a variety of large insects such as grasshoppers,
flies, yellowjackets and honey bees. |
| Control |
|
Removing their
nest is the only to effectively eliminate a hornet colony. This should
only be done by an experienced professional. The danger of stings is
considerable. Proper protective clothing and equipment are required.
|
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