The European hornet (Vespa crabro)
The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is the largest eusocial wasp in Europe and the largest vespine in North America.
This species stings in response to being stepped on or grabbed, but generally avoids conflict. They are defensive of their hive and can be aggressive around food sources.
I was thinking for days if I should publish these pictures or not. It is obvious that this young hornet is already dead. It was like a natural reaction to grab a fly swatter and use it. And we do it most of the time … with flies, wasps, mosquitos, and other little creatures that we find disgusting or fear their venom.
But we never ever really see what happens to them when we do so. After I saw these pictures for the first time on my PC, I was shocked. The damage is obvious.
I decided to publish these pictures in hope that maybe those who will watch them, will think twice about using the fly swatter. It is not necessary in most cases.
Thanks for watching
