If you find yourself spotting more hornets these days, experts say you're most likely encountering the European Hornet.

"Those are the queens [that you see] this time of the year [who] are going to start a nest somewhere in the area," said Eric Barrett of Ohio State University Extension College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

This species is most active at night and is reddish-brown in color. Their intimidating appearance makes them seem dangerous, experts advise reducing your proximity to them can prevent their aggression.

Barrett says if you encounter any kind of hornets nest in trees this summer, avoid disrupting it to allow the hornets to do their job in nature.

"The European Hornet is actually a beneficial insect because it eats larva and caterpillars. Those larva and caterpillars are usually an insect that is harming your plants," Barrett told 21 News. 

While European Hornets are common to the region this time of the year, their features are often mistaken with Asian or Northern Giant Hornets casually known as the "murder hornet".

These hornets are considered a predator species with a bright yellow-head and are known for creating environmental disruption and wreaking havoc on honeybees. Barrett says they are not a species to be concerned about in our area. 

"They were found a few years ago in Washington state and in British Columbia in Canada. They are not here in Ohio. They are not in the Midwest," Barrett said. 

In the meantime, experts say stay vigilant and seek professional assistance when dealing with a hornets nest.