Els kan steken, also known as the European hornet, is a large species of hornet found in Europe and parts of Asia. These insects are known for their impressive size, with queens reaching up to 35mm in length.
Despite their intimidating appearance, Els kan steken are not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. They are primarily carnivorous, feeding on other insects such as bees, flies, and caterpillars. This makes them beneficial to have around as they help control pest populations.
Els kan steken build their nests in hollow trees, wall cavities, or underground. The nests can grow to be quite large, with colonies consisting of hundreds of individuals. They are known for their paper-like nests, which are made by chewing wood fibers and mixing them with saliva.
While Els kan steken can deliver a painful sting if threatened, their venom is not considered to be as potent as that of other stinging insects. However, individuals who are allergic to insect stings should exercise caution around these hornets.
Overall, Els kan steken are fascinating creatures that play an important role in the ecosystem. By controlling pest populations and contributing to pollination, they are a valuable part of the natural world.