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The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is spreading at an alarming rate in Europe, as several local institutions have recently reported. The insect was first sighted in France in 2015, and its spread is increasingly threatening biodiversity and agriculture in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and Hungary. In Austria, the first case was documented on April 9, 2024, in the city of Salzburg.
The threat posed by the Asian hornet to native honeybees is particularly worrying. The invasive species specifically hunts honey bees—and does so in a ruthless manner, lurking in front of the hives, capturing the bees in flight, and feeding them to its brood. This, in turn, weakens bee populations and could cause entire colonies to collapse, as the Nature Conservation Union warned back in 2023. This is because the threat posed by the Asian hornet causes bees to stop working, fly less, and yet still consume nectar. The municipality of Eberndorf in Carinthia, therefore, called on residents weeks ago to report any sightings of the animal.
An Asian hornet can capture 75 bees per day
The local chambers of agriculture were also concerned about the loss of colonies last year and have been insisting on combating the Asian hornet as quickly as possible ever since. According to experience, in late fall, when other insect populations decline, each hornet captures around 75 bees per day, according to a statement. However, the impact on agriculture could be significant, and not just in terms of honey production.
Farmers fear that if the population of the introduced hornets increases, the decline in pollination could also lead to crop failures for fruit and vegetables.
Is the Asian hornet dangerous to humans?
The Asian hornet poses little danger to humans. A sting is comparable to that of native species but may be slightly more painful because the animal’s stinger is more extended and can penetrate deeper into the skin. According to the Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), allergic reactions are possible. Both native and Asian hornets typically only attack humans when they feel threatened. Therefore, it is vital to remain calm, even if the noisy flight can be unsettling for many.
Although the Asian hornet is spreading increasingly in Europe due to milder winters, there have been no large-scale sightings in Austria so far; only isolated cases are known. However, the chambers of agriculture, the Nature Conservation Union, the Federal Environment Agency, and Ages are on alert—they are already issuing urgent warnings online about the invasive species and providing tips on reporting and disposal. On Thursday, the internet platform “MyHammer” also offered safety tips, which can include having the hornets removed by trained professionals.
How European and Asian hornets differ
The insects themselves are somewhat smaller than the native European hornet (Vespa crabro). A black base color, accompanied by a broad orange stripe on the abdomen and yellow legs, characterizes them. The nests are often pear-shaped, can be up to 80 cm high, and are usually located at great heights, which makes them difficult to spot. However, the typical ring pattern is also present in the invasive species, as it is in many other animals.
Given the potential dangers, it is recommended that sightings of Asian hornets be reported immediately to the relevant authorities. Independent control measures should be avoided, as confusion with native species is possible, and exceptional knowledge is required to remove the nests safely.
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