European hornet

While walking along woodland rides this afternoon I spotted this queen European hornet (Vespa crabro). She was absolutely huge! probably 2inches in length from head to sting, yet so beautiful. 
I love the colouring of hornets, they are much more chestnut brown than our wasps and generally speaking much more chilled. 
Anyway this little lady was very chilled ( and probably cold) and just sat on her leaf and allowed me a few shots.