The Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia, often called the “murder hornet,” is an invasive species of public concern due to its impact on ecosystems and human safety. This article provides practical guidance on identification, safety, managing individual insects, handling nests, and reporting sightings.
Identifying Murder Hornets
Accurate identification of the Asian giant hornet is paramount to ensure appropriate action and avoid misidentifying other beneficial insects. These hornets are notably large, with adults typically measuring between 1.57 and 2.00 inches (40 to 51 mm) in length, making them the largest hornets globally.
They possess a distinctive appearance, characterized by a large orange or yellow head with prominent black eyes. Their bodies feature a dark brown thorax and an abdomen with alternating bands of dark brown or black and a yellow-orange hue. Their antennae are medium brown with yellow bases, and they have large mandibles with black tips. The wings are a smoky gray color, and their legs are brown. Distinguishing these visual cues is important to prevent unnecessary harm to native insects that might resemble them.
Prioritizing Safety
Encountering an Asian giant hornet presents significant risks, necessitating extreme caution and protective measures. Their sting is intensely painful and can cause localized tissue damage. Multiple stings pose a serious threat, potentially leading to severe health complications or even death due to the potent venom they inject. The stinger itself is approximately 0.25 inches (6 mm) long and can penetrate thick clothing, including standard beekeeping suits.
It is important to avoid approaching these hornets or their nests without adequate protection. Recommended protective gear includes thick clothing, heavy-duty gloves, and a face shield to guard against stings. A specialized bee suit offers enhanced protection. Remaining calm and avoiding sudden movements when a hornet is nearby can help prevent provoking an attack.
Managing Individual Hornets
When dealing with an individual Asian giant hornet, certain methods can be employed with safety in mind. For physical elimination, using a sturdy object like a shovel or a heavy boot from a safe distance is an option. Wasp and hornet sprays designed for large flying insects can also be used, but it is important to apply them from a safe distance. Caution regarding chemical exposure is advisable, and following product instructions precisely is necessary.
As a passive method, simple bait traps containing sugar water or fruit juice can attract individual hornets, though their effectiveness for active elimination is limited. These traps can help monitor hornet activity but are not a primary solution for immediate threats.
Handling a Nest
Discovering an Asian giant hornet nest requires extreme caution, and attempting to remove it without professional assistance is highly discouraged due to the inherent dangers. These hornets typically build nests underground, often in abandoned rodent burrows, or within hollow spaces like tree cavities. Their aggressive defensive behavior makes untrained intervention exceptionally hazardous.
Contacting professional pest control services is the recommended course of action for nest removal. These professionals are equipped with specialized gear and possess the knowledge and methods to safely and effectively eradicate nests. They may use techniques like vacuuming hornets from the nest or applying insecticides directly into the cavity. Reporting the discovery of a nest to local authorities is also important, as it aids in tracking and managing the invasive species.
Reporting and Prevention
Reporting sightings of Asian giant hornets is a crucial step in community-wide efforts to track and control this invasive species. Individuals should report suspected sightings to their local agricultural departments, state entomology offices, or university extension services. For instance, in Washington state, reports can be made via the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) website, email, or a dedicated hotline. Providing photos or collected specimens can assist experts in confirming identification.
To help prevent hornets from establishing themselves, several proactive measures can be taken. Securing garbage bins tightly and covering food outdoors can deter hornets by eliminating potential food sources. Trimming back dense vegetation reduces the amount of protective cover available for nest building. Sealing cracks and openings in buildings can also prevent hornets from entering structures and potentially nesting.