European Hornet
Vespa crabro
- Group
- Hornet
- Size
- 18–35 mm
- Risk
- Low danger
- Protection status
- Spare where possible
- Identifying features
-
- Largest native social wasp in Switzerland
- Head and thorax reddish-brown, abdomen pale yellow with black bands
- Nest cylindrical, light brown, with a large open underside
- Shy, avoids conflict, shows no interest in sweet food
The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is Switzerland’s largest native social wasp and is often wrongly assumed to be particularly dangerous — in fact it is considerably more peaceable than the common wasp or the German wasp.
Identifying Features
- Size: workers 18–23 mm, queens up to 35 mm
- Colouring: head and thorax reddish-brown, abdomen pale yellow with black bands
- Nest: cylindrical, light brown, with a large open underside
Risk
Low: the European hornet is shy and avoids conflict. It shows no interest in sweet food and only stings if its nest is under immediate threat.
Protected Status in Switzerland
Not legally protected in Switzerland (not listed in Annex 3 of the NHV, the ordinance under the Swiss Nature and Cultural Heritage Act), but recognised as ecologically beneficial. Red List status “least concern” (LC).
What to Do About a Nest
Because hornets are useful and rarely aggressive, we strongly recommend a professional relocation rather than destruction. We are happy to advise you on the options.