Asian hornets attack: New threat to Schleswig-Holstein!

Asian hornets attack: New threat to Schleswig-Holstein!

In recent weeks, the Asian hornets have caused an increased stir in Schleswig-Holstein. Reports from Lübeck and Tielen (Schleswig-Flensburg district) confirm that these invasive animals, which were introduced to France via goods transport from South Asia in 2004, are continuing to spread in Germany. Rainer Borcherding, entomologist at BUND, and Carsten Pusch from NABU inform that this species, which is smaller and darker than the native hornet, has penetrated into North Rhine-Westphalia in recent years. There are now hundreds of sightings there, which is hardly surprising given the climate crisis that is encouraging the species' spread. [Merkur].

What exactly makes the Asian hornet so dangerous? This species of hornet not only hunts insects, but also honey bees in particular. Their presence could threaten the already fragile pollinator system. In France, negative effects of the hornet on the pollination of ivy flowers have already been demonstrated. According to Dr. According to Manfred Verhaagh, an entomologist at the Karlsruhe Natural History Museum, there are hardly any natural enemies of the Asian hornet, which is why it can reproduce unhindered. [ZDF].

Risk to biodiversity

The competition for food resources between the Asian hornet and native species is becoming increasingly intense. Beekeepers are particularly affected because the hornet attacks not only honey bees, but also other pollinators that are essential to the ecosystem. In a new study, 1,449 different insect species were detected in the stomachs of hornet brood. This target selection primarily affects pollinator species such as bumblebees and wild bees. German Beekeepers Association warns about the long-term effects that these predators could have on our environment.

The EU classified the Asian hornet as an invasive species in 2018, which entails control measures. But not everyone agrees with the plans. German environmental authorities are considering only activating the measures if there is an acute threat to biodiversity, which is met with strong protests from the German Beekeepers Association and NABU. These associations demand that the fight against the hornet continues unabated and is not passed on to private individuals. They emphasize that responsibility should remain with environmental authorities and not be shared among other bodies.

Practical tips for those affected

There are numerous tips on how to deal with the situation safely. Beekeepers are recommended to protect their hives with small-mesh bars. If hornets are sighted, it is advisable to report the nests to the lower nature conservation authorities, ideally with a photo. Removing nests yourself is vehemently discouraged as this is not only risky, but can also trigger the hornets' aggressiveness. Nests are often located in sheltered places such as sheds or roller shutter boxes, and in midsummer the hornets move to treetops. The right approach is crucial if you don't want to have the misfortune of getting close to a nest.

Time is of the essence, because the Asian hornet is not only a problem for beekeeping, but also represents a serious threat to biodiversity in Germany. It is now up to the authorities to take appropriate measures to minimize the spread and protect the native flora and fauna.