European Hornet:

The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is a large, social wasp species recognizable by its yellow-and-black striped abdomen, brown head and thorax, and reddish-brown wings. Native to Europe, it is now widespread in parts of North America. Adults measure ¾–1½ inches long and build large paper nests in hollow trees, wall voids, attics, and barns. The colony begins in spring when a queen lays eggs, with worker numbers peaking in late summer. Unlike most wasps, European hornets can forage at night, preying on insects and feeding on tree sap, fruit, and nectar. They are generally not aggressive unless defending their nest, but their sting is painful and can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Colonies die in late fall, with new queens overwintering to start nests the next year.