Hornets are the biggest wasps found in the UK, and are our largest social insect. They differ from common wasps in both size and colour. Common wasps are yellow and black, while hornets are yellow and brown.
In spring, just like other social wasps, they build a papery nest to house the queen and developing larvae. They will nest inside hollow trees, buildings and roof spaces.
They do this by chewing wood and mixing it with their saliva to form a pulp. This is then shaped with the jaws to create the walls of the nest.
Unlike common wasps they will fly after dark provided there is light to guide them. They will fly to lighted windows, and buzz around security lights at any hour of the night.
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Date: 29/05/2010
Location: Surrey, England
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