Red alert: Asian hornet threatens Lower Saxony and beekeepers!

Red alert: Asian hornet threatens Lower Saxony and beekeepers!

The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), which came to France via imported goods in 2004, is increasingly spreading in Germany. Their first detection in Lower Saxony dates back to 2023. Already in 2024, over 100 sightings were reported to the NLWKN. Both beekeepers and environmentalists are concerned about the spread of this invasive species, which poses a serious threat to the native honeybee population. In fact, it is estimated that up to 80 percent of their prey consists of honey bees, putting the bees' survival at risk, so LueneburgCurrent.

The hornet has been on the EU list of invasive species since 2016 (EU Regulation 1143/2014) and was switched from the obligation for immediate removal to a management system in 2025. There is now no prospect of complete eradication; Prevention and information are now the keys to dealing with the situation. Umarkt associations are calling for help: beekeepers should report sightings and nests so that appropriate management measures can be taken.

Distribution and management measures

With its rapid spread, the Asian hornet is attracting more and more attention. In Lower Saxony, the first confirmations were registered in districts such as Diepholz and Northeim. The hornet was also found in Hamburg for the first time in 2019 and its settlement in northern Germany was confirmed through nest finds in 2020 and 2021 NLWKN.

The “AHlert-Nord” monitoring program ensures that finds are monitored and reports are collected efficiently. A special reporting platform for invasive species, accessible via IASNI or www.AHlert-nord.de, functions as an interface for citizens to report their sightings. The characteristics for identification are easy to understand: The hornet has black and yellow striped legs and a lovingly dark abdomen and reaches a body length of up to 3 cm for queens.

Myths and facts

There are many myths circulating in connection with the hornet, especially those about the infamous “killer hornets”. However, scientific studies have not confirmed these fears. Hornets are no more aggressive than their native sister species and usually only sting in defense. However, allergy sufferers should be careful because their bites can be dangerous, like this Federal Environment Agency determines.

The Asian hornet has a darker coloring compared to the European hornet and begins its year by looking for a nest site in spring. Founding nests are often found in sheltered areas. As the first workers mature, these nests expand rapidly and can reach considerable size. A secondary nest can reach up to one meter in diameter and house several thousand hornets.

So what do we learn from this new chapter of native fauna? The most important thing is to stay calm and know the facts. Beekeeping associations and environmental protection organizations appeal to citizens to actively participate in the monitoring process and report sightings. Together we may be able to better assess the scope of the problem and keep it under control.