Asian hornet invasion threatens Germany's bee population
The Asian hornet is expanding its presence in Germany, posing a serious threat to native bee populations and agricultural stability. German beekeepers told Bild that the species is becoming more aggressive, preying on bees, and lacks any natural predators in the region.
Key information
- The Asian hornet is spreading in southern Germany.
- Bees are at risk, affecting honey production and agriculture.
- Scientists are searching for ways to combat the pest.
The Asian hornet is known for its aggressiveness. It is increasingly spreading in southern Germany. Initially, it appeared in regions such as Saarland, Baden-Württemberg, and Rhineland-Palatinate, but it has now reached Bavaria. By 2025, five nests of this invasive species will have already been found.
The hornet poses a serious threat to local bees. Stefan Berg, head of the Bee Institute in Veitshöchheim, emphasises that hornets prey on bees.
The trend is intensifying. The issue is straightforward: this species feeds on local bees and lacks natural regional predators, as Berg explained in an interview with Bild, the Asian hornet positions itself at the hive entrance and ambushes its prey.
The consequence of the hornet's behaviour is that bees are less likely to leave the hive and fly less to collect pollen, resulting in less honey production, fewer flowers being pollinated, and ultimately, crop failure.
Specialists, in conversation with the German daily, explain that finding these insects is difficult and requires a lot of commitment from beekeepers. Even thermal imaging cameras and tiny trackers are used. Observations are recorded on a special platform. Then, nature conservation authorities handle the destruction of nests.
According to Berg, the dangerous hornet has already spread widely in France. Up to 75 per cent of mature fruits are infested in this area. In Portugal, many grocery stores have already withdrawn fruit from sale. "We will have to live with the hornet. Currently, there is no solution," says beekeeper Simon Nuschele from Ostallgäu to "Bild," as he prepares for the invasion with his 60 hives.
