Common wasp vs European hornet
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a common wasp from a european hornet, and whether either one bites or stings.
Common wasp
Vespula vulgaris
European hornet
Vespa crabro
≠The key differences
Larger (up to 30 mm), with more brown and reddish markings rather than stark black-and-yellow bands.
⚖︎Side by side
| Common wasp | European hornet | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Painful sting | Painful sting |
| Size | Workers 10-16 mm; queens up to 20 mm | About 18-25 mm body length (workers); queens 25-35 mm |
| Colours | Yellow, Black, Brown (eyes/legs) | Reddish brown, Yellow, Dark brown |
| Family | Vespidae | Vespidae |
| Habitat | Woodland edges, gardens, parks, urban areas; nests in cavities, attics, wall voids, under sheds, compost heaps or underground | Woodlands, hedgerows, orchards, farmland; nests in hollow trees, wall cavities, attics, sheds and sometimes underground voids |
| Range | Native across much of Europe and temperate Asia; introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and other regions | Native to Europe and temperate Asia; introduced and established in parts of eastern North America |
| Active | Spring to autumn; most active in summer and late summer afternoons | Spring through autumn (peak summer activity); active by day and also at night, often attracted to lights |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot a common wasp
- Yellow and black banded abdomen with compact, stocky body and elbowed antennae
- Size: workers about 10-16 mm; queens noticeably larger
- Facial and abdominal pattern differences from similar species (see similar species)
🔍How to spot a european hornet
- Large size (about 18-35 mm) and robust body compared with common yellowjackets
- Reddish-brown head and thorax with yellow-and-brown banded abdomen
- Paper nest often in hollow tree trunks, wall cavities, attics or sheds
- Flight is slower and more lumbering than smaller wasps; visible mandibles and large head
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a common wasp and a european hornet?
Larger (up to 30 mm), with more brown and reddish markings rather than stark black-and-yellow bands.
Is a common wasp or a european hornet more dangerous?
Common wasp: Painful sting. European hornet: Painful sting. Workers can deliver painful stings repeatedly; stings cause local pain, swelling and redness. European hornets can sting and are capable of multiple stings.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.