The emergence of Asian Giant Hornets, commonly called “murder hornets,” generated public apprehension after their initial detection in North America. These large insects, formally known as Vespa mandarinia, sparked concern about potential impacts. Many sought information regarding their presence, particularly in Ohio. This article addresses their status in Ohio, providing essential background and current information.
Understanding Asian Giant Hornets
Asian Giant Hornets are the largest hornet species globally. Queens can reach over 5 centimeters (2 inches) in length, with workers measuring 3.5 to 3.9 centimeters. Their wingspan can extend up to 7.6 centimeters (3 inches). These hornets have a distinctive broad, light orange or yellowish head, dark brown antennae with an orange-yellow base, and a dark brown thorax. Their abdomen features alternating dark and orangish-yellow or reddish-brown bands, and they have large orange mandibles with a black tooth.
Native to temperate and tropical regions of East Asia, these hornets typically inhabit low mountains and forested areas. They construct nests primarily underground, often using pre-existing tunnels dug by rodents, spaces near rotten pine roots, or hollow trees. While their sting can be painful and hazardous to humans if a nest is disturbed, their primary threat is their predatory behavior towards honeybee populations. A small group can decimate a honeybee colony within hours by beheading adult bees and consuming larvae and pupae.
Current Status and Monitoring in Ohio
Asian Giant Hornets were never confirmed to have established populations in Ohio. Their initial detections in North America occurred in the Pacific Northwest, specifically Washington State and British Columbia, starting in late 2019. Following intensive monitoring and eradication efforts, the species was officially declared eradicated from the United States in December 2024, meaning no established populations exist in Ohio or elsewhere in the U.S.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) continues vigilance and monitoring for various invasive species, including the Asian Giant Hornet. These programs involve public outreach and encourage citizens to report suspicious sightings. Many reports submitted to the ODA concerning suspected Asian Giant Hornets have consistently turned out to be native insects. For instance, the European Hornet, which can measure up to 1.25 inches, is frequently mistaken for the Asian Giant Hornet due to its size.
Identification and Reporting Suspected Sightings
The Asian Giant Hornet is characterized by its large size, a notably large orange or yellowish head, a dark brown thorax, and an abdomen with distinct orangish-yellow and reddish-brown bands. Unlike many bees, these hornets have little to no hair on their bodies.
In contrast, the European Hornet, a common look-alike in Ohio, typically has a mahogany-brown or reddish-brown thorax and head top, a yellow face, and a yellow and black-banded abdomen with tear-drop shaped black markings. Another frequently misidentified insect is the Cicada Killer Wasp, which resembles a large yellowjacket but has distinct yellow or gold bands on its abdomen that do not connect. Bumble bees, while large, are easily distinguished by their furry bodies.
If you suspect an Asian Giant Hornet encounter, do not approach or handle it; instead, take a clear photograph. Suspected sightings in Ohio should be reported to the Ohio Department of Agriculture through their online reporting tool or via email to [email protected]. Reports should include contact information, the location and date of the sighting, a photograph, and any observed damage. Official confirmation requires a captured specimen, which would be verified by the USDA or ODA.