what are these large yellow jackets? they attack my outdoor lights at night. - Ask Extension
I have lived at my house for 45 years and it is a wood type setting and never seen these before. i have small yellow jackets hoovering over my yard th...
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what are these large yellow jackets? they attack my outdoor lights at night. #850103
Asked September 16, 2023, 7:50 AM EDT
I have lived at my house for 45 years and it is a wood type setting and never seen these before. i have small yellow jackets hoovering over my yard this year but now ground nest. these large jackets have been attacking my outdoor lights. thoughts?
Lancaster County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
Good afternoon Thomas,
These are European Hornets. They were introduced to the US back in the 1940's. Until the discovery of the Northern Giant Hornet in Washington State, they were the largest true hornet found here. They are also one of the only wasps/hornets that are active at night.
They are often attracted to bright exterior lights or light shining through windows in homes.
Here is some more in-depth information:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/european-hornets
https://extension.psu.edu/european-hornet
Thanks Thomas, I hope this helps.
These are European Hornets. They were introduced to the US back in the 1940's. Until the discovery of the Northern Giant Hornet in Washington State, they were the largest true hornet found here. They are also one of the only wasps/hornets that are active at night.
They are often attracted to bright exterior lights or light shining through windows in homes.
Here is some more in-depth information:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/european-hornets
https://extension.psu.edu/european-hornet
Thanks Thomas, I hope this helps.
