There are two separate, non-related insects in the southeast known as hornets: the European hornet, which was accidentally introduced into the United States (there are no true hornets native to the U.S.), and the bald-faced hornet (see picture, below), which is actually a type of wasp. While they are not the same species, there are very similar in habitat and lifestyle.

European hornets are yellow, black, and/or reddish brown; the queens will grow to be about 1 to 1.5 inches long, with the workers and drones being somewhat smaller. Bald-faced hornets are black and ivory-white; they are slightly smaller than European hornets, with the queens usually between .75 and 1.5 inches long, and the workers and drones somewhat smaller. Hornets have been found that were as large as 1.8".

Hornet nests begin as a small collection of cells, in which a queen will lay eggs. As the brood grows in population, the nest is added on to; while usually a little longer than the length of a football and about the circumference of a basketball, they can reach heights of 3 feet.

A single hornet sting is not dangerous to those without allergies; however, hornets will almost always attack in swarms, and sting multiple times. It is therefore not advisable to agitate a hornets' nest in any way. If you do so, get indoors immediately, as they will chase you.If you have a hornets' nest around your house, it is highly recommended that you contact a professional pest control company to remove it.

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