Asian hornets are spreading: Dangerous plague in Schleswig-Holstein!

Asian hornets are spreading: Dangerous plague in Schleswig-Holstein!

Sightings of the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) were reported for the first time in Schleswig-Holstein, particularly from Lübeck and Tielen in the Schleswig-Flensburg district. This invasive species, which comes from Southeast Asia and was introduced to France via goods transport since 2004, is spreading rapidly in Europe. Experts warn that their immigration is now irreversible. The hornet is already widespread in several federal states, including Baden-Württemberg, Saarland, Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia. Hundreds of sightings have already been documented in North Rhine-Westphalia alone.

The Asian hornet differs from the native European hornet (Vespa crabro) in its smaller size and darker body with striking yellow feet. A state can contain up to 2,000 individuals, while the native hornet states must suffice with a maximum of 700 animals. The hornet hunts numerous insects, especially honey bees, which it needs as a source of protein for its offspring. This has already led to crop losses in countries such as France and Spain.

Distribution and climatic factors

The rapid spread of the Asian hornet is being encouraged by the climate crisis. It migrates about 80 kilometers further every year. In addition, the hornet moves to the treetops in midsummer, which makes it difficult to spot. False reports of sightings are common; Many suspected Asian hornets ultimately turn out to be native species. NABU appeals to the nature conservation authorities to urgently implement measures to contain the hornet in order to avoid negative effects on the local fauna.

Although the Asian hornet is often mistakenly perceived as aggressive, they generally do not attack people unless you are in close proximity to their nest. However, removing hornet nests can be dangerous and should only be done by professionals. Self-experiments are not recommended as the animals can react aggressively if threatened.

Legal measures and tips

The EU placed the Asian hornet on the invasive species list in 2018, which requires appropriate control measures to be taken. From March 2025, the Asian hornet will be officially recognized as an established species in Germany, which will change the legal basis for combating it. However, it is not yet widespread in many federal states, which allows the spread to be slowed.

• Sicherstellen, dass es sich tatsächlich um eine Asiatische Hornisse handelt.
• Die Sichtung über die Meldeplattform des jeweiligen Bundeslandes melden.
• Das Nest professionell entfernen lassen.

Beekeepers can also protect their hives with small-mesh bars to protect their colonies from hornet attacks. The ongoing handling of the Asian hornet requires both education and preventive measures to counteract the impending threat to the native insect species and beekeeping.