Janice R. Andrews
The Northern giant hornet, more commonly known as the “murder hornet,” has been successfully eradicated from the United States, agriculture officials confirmed on Wednesday. The invasive species, first detected in 2019, posed a significant threat to honeybees and agriculture, though it is not a major danger to humans.
The hornets, which can grow up to 2 inches in length with a stinger longer than that of most wasps, became a focal point of concern due to their potential to destroy bee colonies. Bees are essential for pollination, which impacts ecosystems, crops, and food production across the nation.
A Collective Effort to Eliminate the Threat
The eradication effort involved collaboration between state, federal, and international agencies, working together to track, locate, and destroy hornet nests. Entomologists faced the challenge of finding nests, which are often hidden in underground cavities or in trees. One of the innovative methods used was to capture a hornet, attach a radio tag to it, and release it, allowing experts to follow the hornet back to its nest. This approach required developing a technique to safely tag the hornets without harming them.
Once a nest was located, a specialized team took action. They sealed the nest with foam, covered the tree in plastic, and vacuumed the hornets out. In some cases, carbon dioxide was pumped into the nest to ensure that no hornets survived. Additionally, nearly 1,000 traps were set up in Washington state to help locate nests, and in 2021, a nest containing nearly 1,500 hornets was destroyed.
The Role of the Public in Eradication
A key factor in the success of the eradication effort was the involvement of the public. Sven Spichiger, pest program manager at the Washington State Department of Agriculture, emphasized that all nest detections were made possible by public reports. “Without the public’s help, the hornet could have remained a problem for years,” Spichiger said.
Half of the confirmed nest locations came directly from public tips, highlighting the importance of community involvement in tracking invasive species.
The Possibility of a Return
While the hornets have been eradicated for now, experts are cautious about the potential for their return. Spichiger warned that invasive species can often be reintroduced through international trade or travel. “They got here once, and they could do it again,” he cautioned. Continuous monitoring and public vigilance will be essential in keeping the hornets at bay.
What Makes “Murder Hornets” Dangerous?
Despite their fearsome nickname, Northern giant hornets are more of a threat to honeybees than to humans. These hornets can wipe out entire hives in under two hours by decapitating bees and taking over the hive to feed their larvae. This aggressive behavior can have a devastating effect on bee populations, which are critical for pollination.
Although the hornets can sting multiple times and their venom is potent, they typically only sting when threatened. Their large size, distinctive yellow and black striped body, and massive head make them easily recognizable.
A Shift in Terminology
When the hornets were first discovered in North America, they were referred to as the Asian giant hornet. However, in 2022, the Entomological Society of America changed the name to the Northern giant hornet to avoid unnecessary fear. “The new name is scientifically accurate and easier to understand, without causing panic,” explained Jessica Ware, the society’s president.
Global Concerns
Although the United States has eradicated the hornets, sightings of the species have been reported in Europe. Researchers in Spain recently confirmed two sightings of Northern giant hornets, suggesting that the species continues to spread globally. These reports have raised concerns about the potential impact of the hornet on European ecosystems.
Key Takeaways
The eradication of the Northern giant hornet is a major victory for U.S. agriculture, demonstrating the power of coordinated efforts and public involvement in tackling invasive species. However, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by these species. While the hornet may be gone for now, experts stress the importance of vigilance in monitoring for any signs of reintroduction. The battle against invasive species is never truly over.
