There's a buzz in the parkland...

There are some real Vespas in Tatton Park. However, these ones are Vespa crabro, more commonly known as the European hornet.

While out looking for wasps’ nests the Ranger team came across an Oak tree in Boat House Wood that the hornets are visiting. The very large hornets are less aggressive than wasps and can be seen taking tree sap and wasps, as well as other insects.

Hornet in the parkland ©Tatton Park

The tree in question is now littered at its base by many pieces of broken insects caught and eaten by these hunters. The hornets are yellow and red/brown in colour, around 25-30mm long and have a very loud wing drone.

There are no other known species of hornet nesting in Britain. This is the first time the team have seen hornets in Tatton – they are not often known to come so far North West. You could say they have caused quite a buzz!

Find out more about the wildlife and activities in the Parkland at Tatton Park.

Simon Jones, Tatton Park Ranger