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European Hornet, male

Vespa crabro

Description:

This is the largest European eusocial wasp but they are found worldwide. The queen measures 25 to 50 mm (1–2 in) long; males and workers are smaller. This species will sting in response to being stepped on or grabbed. They are also defensive of their hive and rather aggressive around food sources such as lilac bushes. The pain from the sting may persist for several days with attendant swelling.

Habitat:

This one was enjoying the ripe persimmons in my yard.

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2 Comments

Maria dB
Maria dB 11 years ago

Thanks! I thought it was quite beautiful! It's good I didn't know they may be prone to stinging as I followed it around to get photos.

h2go10
h2go10 11 years ago

That looks really cool!!! :)

Maria dB
Spotted by
Maria dB

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA

Spotted on Oct 17, 2012
Submitted on Oct 20, 2012

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