What Do European Hornets Eat?

European Hornets are omnivorous insects known for their diverse diet.

• Insects: They primarily feed on a variety of insects such as flies, beetles, and other smaller insects.
• Spiders: They are known to prey on spiders, including large species.
• Tree sap: They consume sap from trees as a source of carbohydrates.
• Fruit: They are attracted to ripe, sweet fruits like apples and pears.
• Honeybee larvae: European hornets often attack honeybee hives to feed on the larvae.
• Carrion: Occasionally, they may feed on carrion (dead animal matter), especially in the absence of other food sources.

How do European Hornets Eat?

European hornets, like other wasps, primarily consume a diet of insects, sap, and nectar. Their feeding process involves:

• Capturing and paralyzing their prey using their sting.
• Chewing the prey into a pulp.
• If the prey is for their larvae, they carry it back to their nest.
• Adult hornets consume the liquid part, while the solid part is fed to the larvae.
• Larvae, in return, produce a sugary substance that adult hornets eat.

What do European Hornets Drink?

European Hornets, like other insects, consume a variety of liquids for nourishment.

• Nectar: A sweet liquid produced by plants, primarily consumed for energy.
• Sap: Fluid from trees, which provides nutrients.
• Honeydew: A sugary secretion from aphids, used as a food source.
• Water: Essential for hydration and digestion.

FAQs about European Hornets

1. How often do European Hornets eat?

European Hornets typically eat several times a day depending on their energy requirements and the availability of food.

2. How long can a European Hornets live without eating?

An adult European Hornet can survive without eating for about one week.

3. What do Larvae European Hornets eat?

Larvae of European Hornets primarily eat a diet of insects and spiders, which are pre-chewed by adult hornets before feeding.