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Northern Giant Hornet

Vespa mandarinia

Venomous / dangerousRare

Quick answer

Very painful, venomous sting. Keep well away. Safety level: Venomous / dangerous.

How to identify the Northern Giant Hornet

A very large hornet, 3.5-5 cm long, with a big orange-yellow head and large dark eyes.
Abdomen has bands of dark brown or black and yellow-orange.
Its size alone sets it apart from almost every other wasp.
Size: 3.5–5 cm.

Where it lives

Native to East and Southeast Asia, including Japan, China, Korea and India. It has been found in the Pacific Northwest of North America, where authorities ask the public to report sightings. Nests are usually underground in forests and low mountains.

Is it dangerous?

Its sting is very painful and it injects a large amount of venom. Several stings can be dangerous even without an allergy, and attacks near nests can be serious. It is also a major threat to honey bee colonies.

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Children and pets

Keep everyone far from the nest.

What to do

Don't approach or disturb it.
Report sightings to local authorities where it is invasive.
Seek medical help after a sting.

Fun fact

It is the largest hornet in the world, up to 5 cm long.

⚠ Call emergency services straight away for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a scorpion sting in a child. This page is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

Is the northern giant hornet dangerous to people?

It rarely attacks unless its nest is disturbed, but its stings are very painful and can be dangerous. Keep well away.

What should I do if I see one?

Do not approach it. Where it is invasive, report the sighting to local agriculture or wildlife authorities.

Is it the same as the "murder hornet"?

Yes, "murder hornet" is a nickname used in the media for this species.