🐝 1. Asian Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia)
Often called the “giant hornet” or previously nicknamed “murder hornet” in media.
Key Features
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Size: 1.5–2 inches (38–50 mm) long
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Color: Orange head, dark brown body, yellow/orange stripes
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Habitat: East Asia (Japan, China, Korea), but occasionally detected elsewhere
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Behavior:
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Powerful sting
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Can attack honeybee colonies
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Not aggressive unless threatened
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🐝 2. European Hornet (Vespa crabro)
Widespread in Europe and North America.
Key Features
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Size: About 1 inch (25–35 mm)
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Color: Yellow and brown body, reddish head
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Behavior:
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Nocturnal activity
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Less aggressive than yellowjackets
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Will defend nests vigorously
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🐝 3. Vespa ducalis (Black-bellied Hornet)
A very large hornet species native to Asia.
Key Features
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Size: Up to 1.4 inches (35 mm)
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Color: Black abdomen with yellow/orange head
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Behavior:
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Predatory
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Less commonly seen by the general public
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⚠️ Are large hornets dangerous?
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They can be, especially if their nest is disturbed.
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Stings are painful and can cause allergic reactions.
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Most species do not attack people unless threatened.
🏡 If you found a large hornet near your home
I can help you identify it. Tell me:
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Size
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Colors (head, thorax, abdomen)
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Behavior (slow? fast? hovering?)
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Location (country/region)
Or if you want info on:
✅ removal
✅ sting treatment
✅ how to tell hornets vs wasps vs cicadas
Just let me know!
