Opening the magnetically locked (numerical code operated) gate from the Loder Valley back into Wakehurst Place, imagine the surprise to be face-to face with a Hornet.
What to do? Well take some pic's for sure. How beautiful you are with your five eyes; two compound and your three ocelli, simple eyes.
And say "Hi! Please don't sting me if I just place my fingers near you for an idea of scale."
Hornets have a powerful sting, yet are reckoned to be less aggressive that other wasps. Had I known that at the time it could have walked on my hand. But I was cautious of the unknown then.
That is a wonderful find. They are both impressive and attractive.
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