Alarm in Baden-Württemberg: Asian hornets are spreading rapidly!

Alarm in Baden-Württemberg: Asian hornets are spreading rapidly!

In recent months, the Asian hornet has caused a stir in western Germany. In Baden-Württemberg in particular, the dreaded insect continues to spread despite a variety of control measures. So reported baden-wuerttemberg.de that the Federal Environment Ministry had already classified the hornet as “widespread” at the end of March 2025. What this means for citizens and the environment is a real issue.

With this classification, the situation has changed drastically for many of those affected. The obligation to remove hornet nests is now no longer required and appropriate management is required instead. In concrete terms, this means that nest removals only have to be ordered at your own expense, unless there is a risk of concrete damage to biological diversity. But don't panic: The State Institute for Bee Science (LAB) offers support to protect pollinators and nature.

Research project on hornet management

A ray of hope in the situation is the Ministry of the Environment's initiative to launch a research project to effectively combat the Asian hornet. In collaboration with federal authorities and the LAB, extensive field trials are to be started to test new control methods. These pioneering approaches could pave the way for a sustainable solution.

In order to maintain an overview of the situation, it will be important to report sightings of hornets and their nests in the future. Citizens can easily and quickly share their observations via the reporting platform of the Baden-Württemberg State Office for the Environment (LUBW). Confirmed evidence is documented on a map so that everyone can take a look at the current situation.

A look at the current numbers

In recent years, the number of reports of hornet nests in Baden-Württemberg has increased significantly. In 2022, around 1,500 nests were counted, while in 2023 there were already 607 reports. These numbers make it clear that the hornet is not just a seasonal phenomenon, but is an increasing threat.

The Round Table on the Asian Hornet, which has been meeting under the leadership of the Ministry of the Environment since 2022, offers a platform to discuss possible solutions and strategies. An important measure that was already introduced in 2023 is the uncomplicated reporting option for citizens, which helps to better isolate and control the hornet.

The spread of the Asian hornet not only has consequences for the local fauna, but also for everyone who moves in nature. It remains to be seen what further measures will be taken to counteract this trend. Meanwhile, those interested can find out more about the topic and current developments redfin.com experience.

In the future, education and preventative measures will be of great importance to protect nature and go beyond the prevailing fear of the Asian hornet. Stay informed and help improve the situation for our environment.