European hornet vs Asian hornet
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell an European hornet from an Asian hornet, and whether either one bites or stings.
European hornet
Vespa crabro
Asian hornet
Vespa velutina
≠The key differences
Larger (up to 35 mm), more reddish-brown overall and paler yellow markings; facial and abdominal patterning differs with more red tones.
⚖︎Side by side
| European hornet | Asian hornet | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Painful sting | Venomous sting |
| Size | About 18-25 mm body length (workers); queens 25-35 mm | Workers 20-25 mm, queens up to 30 mm |
| Colours | Reddish brown, Yellow, Dark brown | Dark brown / black, Orange / reddish, Yellow, Brown wings |
| Family | Vespidae | Vespidae |
| Habitat | Woodlands, hedgerows, orchards, farmland; nests in hollow trees, wall cavities, attics, sheds and sometimes underground voids | Woodland edges, gardens, parks; nests in trees, shrubs, roof spaces and cavities near human habitation |
| Range | Native to Europe and temperate Asia; introduced and established in parts of eastern North America | Native to Asia (India, China, Southeast Asia). Invasive in parts of Europe (France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, UK and others), South Korea, Japan (introduced populations vary by region) and reported elsewhere via accidental transport. |
| Active | Spring through autumn (peak summer activity); active by day and also at night, often attracted to lights | Spring to autumn; workers most numerous in summer and early autumn; active during daylight hours |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot an 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
🔍How to spot an Asian hornet
- Workers 20-25 mm long, dark velvety thorax and mostly dark abdomen with a thin yellow band at the front and one broad yellow-orange band near the rear.
- Legs noticeably yellowish (visible in flight) — 'yellow-legged hornet'.
- Smaller and darker than the European hornet (Vespa crabro); face and lower abdomen have orange hues.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an European hornet and an Asian hornet?
Larger (up to 35 mm), more reddish-brown overall and paler yellow markings; facial and abdominal patterning differs with more red tones.
Is an European hornet or an Asian hornet more dangerous?
European hornet: Painful sting. Asian hornet: Venomous sting. European hornets can sting and are capable of multiple stings. Stings are painful and can cause local swelling.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.