Hornets are the largest eusocial wasps; some species can reach up to 5.6 cm (2.2 in) in length.
The best known species is the European hornet (Vespa crabro), about 2–3.5 cm in length,
widely distributed throughout Europe, Russia, North America and Northeast Asia.

Endangered species and legal protection
Unwarranted fear has often led to the destruction of nests, leading to the decline of the species,
which is often locally threatened or even endangered.
European hornets benefit from legal protection in some countries, notably France and Germany,
where it has been illegal to kill a European hornet or nest since 1 January 1987, with a fine of up to 50,000 Euros.

Whilst stings are painful - and can in some people cause anaphylactic shock - they are not as agressive as the common wasp and will normally avoid people.