Have you ever seen a large, buzzing insect around your garden or in the countryside? You might have spotted a hornet! But did you know that not all hornets are the same and that some are actually beneficial members of our local ecosystem? 

Let’s explore the European Hornet, our native hornet in Derbyshire, and learn how to recognise it from the Asian Hornet, a species that’s not originally from our part of the world.

The European Hornet: Our Local Helper

The European Hornet (scientifically known as Vespa crabro) is the biggest hornet in Europe. It’s about the size of a small apple or a large thumb—roughly 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres long. Despite its impressive size, it’s generally a gentle giant, more interested in hunting pests than bothering people.

This hornet is an important part of our natural environment. It helps keep insect populations in check by feeding on flies, moths, and beetles—many of which can damage crops or garden plants. So, in a way, the European Hornet acts as a natural pest controller, helping us keep our gardens healthy without the need for chemical pesticides.

A Few Friendly Facts:

• European Hornets usually come out at dusk or during the night.
• They prefer to build their nests in hollow trees, old buildings, or sheltered spots—often in large, papery-looking colonies.
• While they can sting if threatened, they typically avoid humans and aren’t aggressive unless provoked.
• They also visit flowers for nectar, contributing a bit to pollination, much like bees.

Why Should We Care About the European Hornet?

Not only do they help control pests, but they’re also part of the food chain, serving as prey for birds and other predators. Plus, they’re a native species—meaning they’ve been here for thousands of years, woven into the natural fabric of our local environment.

The Threat of the Invasive Asian Hornet

Recently, a different hornet has been making headlines: the Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina). This species isn’t from Europe—it's originally from parts of Asia and has been spreading across Europe, and is now seen occasionally in the UK.

The Asian Hornet is smaller (about 2 to 2.5 centimetres long) and looks quite different from our native European Hornet. It’s darker overall, almost black, with a distinctive orange face. Unlike our friendly giant, the Asian Hornet is more aggressive, especially towards honeybees and other pollinators. Its presence can threaten local bee populations—a big problem for gardeners, farmers, and anyone who relies on bees for pollination.

Why Is This Important?

Misidentifying a European Hornet as an Asian Hornet can lead to unnecessary panic or even harmful actions like destroying a native species. Conversely, ignoring an Asian Hornet’s presence could endanger our native bees, which are vital for pollinating many of the fruits, vegetables, and flowers we enjoy.

What Should You Do If You Find a Hornet?

If you see a hornet and aren’t sure what it is:

• Observe carefully—note its size, colour, and behaviour.
• Take photos if possible.
• Contact your local Wildlife Trust or Record Centre before taking any action

Remember, the European Hornet is a beneficial native insect. Appreciating its role in our environment helps us protect our natural heritage and maintain a healthy balance in nature.

Submit your sightings here

Summary

Our local European Hornet is a fascinating, helpful, and mostly harmless creature. It helps keep pests in check, supports biodiversity, and is part of our natural world. Learning how to distinguish it from the invasive Asian Hornet is key to protecting both our native species and the vital pollinators like bees.

So next time you see a buzzing insect, take a moment to look closer—you might just be looking at a friendly neighbour, doing its part for the environment. Let’s celebrate our native European Hornet for the valuable member of nature it truly is!