Several residents of Grace have noted a new insect predator in the neighborhood. Based on sightings, it looks like a handful of European Hornets have made Grace their place. As we often learn, there is good news and bad news.
The good news is they eat other insects like Carpenter Bees, wasps, and other species you might not want in your garden. Many consider European Hornets to be beneficial and appreciate the fact they dine on other, less favorable bugs.
The bad news is they are like some relatives—usually passive, but you don’t want to make them mad.
“This species stings in response to being stepped on or grabbed, but generally avoids conflict. It is also defensive of its nest and can be aggressive around food sources. Care should be taken when they are found in these circumstances, as they may sting without warning. European hornets are largely carnivorous and hunt large insects such as beetles, wasps, large moths, dragonflies, and mantises.”
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_hornet
Before attempting to remove these guests, consider that they can eliminate other flying pests in the neighborhood. Then again, if there’s a nest behind your porch chair, it might be time to use chemicals.