Invasive species conquer Stormarn: This is how the Asian hornet endangers our nature!

Invasive species conquer Stormarn: This is how the Asian hornet endangers our nature!

In Schleswig-Holstein there is currently a growing problem with invasive species that threaten our native ecosystem. The Asian hornet in particular has become an increasing challenge since mid-June 2023. A nest has already been discovered and removed in Stormarn, which only increases concerns about the spread of this species. This hornet originally comes from Southeast Asia and found its way to Europe in 2004 through transport of goods, where it has been making an unstoppable advance ever since. Loud LN Online Invasive species like these damage the native ecosystem by spreading into non-native regions and causing imbalance.

It's not just the hornet that poses a problem. The nutria, an invasive species from South America, has also increased significantly in Schleswig-Holstein. In Stormarn, 710 nutrias were already counted in 2022 - a sign that the population has grown drastically, including in the last two years. These animals not only cause damage to embankments and dikes, but also to agriculture and are now also marketed as game meat. A catering company in Stockelsdorf has even started to put nutria on the menu, which is not only interesting from a culinary point of view, but also contributes to the control of this animal species.

A challenge for nature

The invasive raccoons that come from America are also contributing to the displacement of native species. In the last hunting year, 333 raccoons were counted in Stormarn, which primarily threaten frog and toad populations. They are caught or scared away in order to regulate the population. Raccoon dogs, originally from Asia, are also present in the region; Their number was 410 animals in the last hunting year. These unwanted visitors not only deprive native species of their habitat, but also cause significant damage to the region's biodiversity.

But it's not just animals that are worried; plant species are also affected by the invasion. In Bad Oldesloe, balsam, an invasive plant from the Himalayas, is spreading and a youth group is fighting it. Giant hogweed is another highly invasive plant that contact with can cause severe skin burns. In addition, the Japanese knotweed, which comes from East Asia, causes problems: It grows rapidly and forms deep roots, which makes combating it much more difficult. These plants are not only a nuisance to farmers but also a serious threat to native flora.

Together against the invaders

The challenges posed by invasive species not only require a rethink, but also joint efforts by the population. It is important to be educated on how to identify and combat invasive species to protect the native ecosystem. LN Online emphasizes that everyone can contribute by becoming informed and taking action. Whether in our own garden, walking in the park or exploring nature - we all have a role to play in the fight against invasive species.