The insect commonly known as the “murder hornet” gained widespread public attention, especially after its appearance in North America. Its alarming moniker sparks curiosity about its behavior and potential threats. Understanding the unique characteristics and predatory actions of Vespa mandarinia clarifies why this vivid name became prominent. This article explores the hornet’s impact on ecosystems and its global journey.
The Hornet’s Devastating Predation
The “murder” in the common name primarily refers to the hornet’s aggressive predatory behavior, especially its attacks on honeybee colonies. Asian giant hornets are efficient hunters, with honeybees being a significant food source for their developing young. A few hornets can eliminate tens of thousands of bees within hours during a hive attack.
During these attacks, hornets use their large mandibles to decapitate adult honeybees, leaving headless bodies outside the hive. They then invade the hive, taking honeybee larvae and pupae back to their nest to feed their offspring. Unlike native Asian honeybees, which use defensive strategies like “heat-balling,” Western honeybees lack such defenses, making them vulnerable.
Physical Characteristics and Human Impact
Asian giant hornets are the largest hornet species globally. Queens can reach 5 centimeters (2 inches) in body length with a wingspan of approximately 7.6 centimeters (3 inches). Their distinctive appearance includes a broad orange or yellow head, prominent dark eyes, a dark brown thorax, and an abdomen striped with alternating black and yellow or orange bands. A female hornet’s stinger is about 6 millimeters (1/4 inch) long, capable of delivering potent venom.
While their sting is intensely painful, often described as feeling like a “hot nail,” the hornets’ primary “murderous” behavior targets insects, not humans. Hornets can sting repeatedly because their stingers do not detach. Human fatalities are rare, occurring only in cases of severe allergic reactions or multiple stings.
From Scientific Name to Common Moniker
The scientific name for this species is Vespa mandarinia. The common name “murder hornet” gained significant traction in media reports, especially after its detection in North America in 2019 and 2020. Japanese entomologists reportedly attributed this vivid name due to the hornets’ mass attacks on bee colonies.
In July 2022, the Entomological Society of America officially adopted “northern giant hornet” as the common name for Vespa mandarinia. This change aimed for scientific accuracy and to avoid language that might evoke undue fear or discrimination.
Global Journey and Ecological Concerns
Native to East, South, and Southeast Asia, including Japan, Korea, China, and parts of the Russian Far East, Vespa mandarinia has a wide natural distribution. It became a global concern when detected as an invasive species in the Pacific Northwest of North America in late 2019, likely arriving via international shipping containers.
Their invasive nature poses a significant threat to local ecosystems, particularly to Western honeybee populations crucial for agricultural pollination. The potential for Vespa mandarinia to decimate honeybee colonies has raised ecological and economic concerns. Ongoing eradication efforts are in place to prevent the establishment and spread of this invasive hornet.