European Hornet: Identification Guide
Quick Facts About European Hornets
European hornets, also known as giant hornets or brown hornets, were introduced to the United States in the 1800s and have since spread throughout the eastern states, including Tennessee. Unlike most native stinging insects, these large hornets are active both day and night and are notably attracted to lights after dark.- Size: 0.75 to 1.4 inches in length
- Color: Brown with yellow stripes on abdomen and pale-yellow face
- Shape: Robust, wasp-like body with two pairs of wings
- Active Season: Spring through fall, with peak activity in late summer
- Lifespan: Workers live several months; fertilized queens overwinter
- Reproduction Rate: Colonies typically contain 200-400 hornets by late summer
What Do European Hornets Look Like?
European hornets are the largest hornets found in Tennessee, with a robust, wasp-like appearance. Their coloration is distinctive, featuring a brown thorax and the first abdominal segment, followed by yellow and brown striped patterns on the remainder of the abdomen. Their face is pale yellow with large black eyes, and they have prominent antennae. The combination of their large size and coloration pattern makes them relatively easy to distinguish from other stinging insects in Tennessee.
Key Identifying Features
- Large Size: Significantly larger than yellow jackets or paper wasps, reaching up to 1.4 inches in length.
- Brown and Yellow Coloration: Their predominantly brown bodies with yellow striping creates a distinctive appearance unlike the black and yellow pattern of many other wasps.
- Nocturnal Activity: Unlike most stinging insects, European hornets remain active after dark and are strongly attracted to lights.
- Nest Structure: They build paper nests typically inside cavities such as hollow trees, wall voids, attics, or other enclosed spaces.
Related Species
European hornets are sometimes confused with the smaller bald-faced hornets, which have black bodies with white markings. They may also be mistaken for yellow jackets, though European hornets are significantly larger and browner. The recently introduced Asian giant hornet (sometimes called “murder hornet”) is larger and has a different color pattern with a primarily orange head.
Health & Property Risks
Health Concerns
European hornets pose several health risks when nesting near homes.
- Painful Stings: Their stings cause significant pain, swelling, and itching that can last up to 24 hours.
- Multiple Stings: They can sting repeatedly when defending their nest, increasing the risk of serious reactions.
- Allergic Reactions: As with other stinging insects, some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention.
Property Damage
European hornets can impact property in several ways.
- Vegetation Damage: They strip bark from trees and shrubs to gather nesting material and access sap, potentially harming or killing young plants.
- Structural Concerns: Nests built inside wall voids or attics can damage insulation and occasionally lead to moisture issues.
- Nighttime Nuisance: Their attraction to lights can make evening outdoor activities uncomfortable or impossible.
Where to Look for European Hornets Around Your Home
European hornets typically build nests at least six feet above ground level. Common nesting locations include hollow trees, attics, wall voids, chimneys, barns, sheds, and under porches or decks. Unlike many wasps, their nests are rarely in the open but instead hidden inside cavities, though parts of their brown papery nest covering may be visible at the entrance. They’re often spotted flying around exterior lights at night or foraging for tree sap, overripe fruit, or insects.
When to Call Professional Help
Professional pest control is strongly recommended for European hornet issues due to their size, ability to sting multiple times, and potential for aggressive nest defense. You should contact professionals immediately if you discover a nest on your property, observe regular hornet activity around your home, particularly near entryways or living areas, or if you notice damage to trees or shrubs from bark stripping. Never attempt DIY removal of European hornet nests.Schedule a Free Inspection
Our expert technicians at U.S. Pest Protection specialize in safely identifying and eliminating European hornet colonies throughout Tennessee. Using environmentally friendly treatments and proper safety equipment, we can remove these large stinging insects from your property without putting your family at risk. We respond quickly—within 24 hours—to help you reclaim your outdoor spaces and prevent property damage.
