Asian hornet alert in Amstelveen: report sightings to protect bees and prevent stings
Residents of Amstelveen are urged to report sightings of the invasive Asian hornet as warmer weather awakens the species. These hornets threaten local ecosystems by preying on bees and other pollinators, while their nests can pose risks to public safety. Early reporting helps prevent nuisance and damage to local businesses.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Asian hornet (invasive) |
| Impact on insects | Consumes ~11 kg (100,000) insects per nest per season |
| Affected sectors | Beekeepers, fruit growers, seed growers, horticultural businesses |
| Nest size (embryonic) | Ping pong ball-sized, light brown |
| Nest locations | Birdhouses, awnings, sheds, wood piles, roof edges |
| Reporting methods | Fixi app, Amstelveen website, WhatsApp |
| Removal cost | Free |
| Distinctive features | 2.5–3 cm, black thorax, yellow leg tips, one yellow-orange abdominal band |
| European hornet (native) | Larger (3–3.5 cm), reddish-brown thorax, mostly yellow abdomen |
The municipality of Amstelveen is responsible for managing public safety and environmental risks within its jurisdiction. By coordinating the reporting and removal of Asian hornet nests, the municipality aims to mitigate ecological damage and protect residents from potential stings and nuisance.
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Read the full translated article below
Beware: the Asian hornet is awake
The Asian hornet is active again as the outdoor temperature rises. We ask residents of the municipality of Amstelveen to report sightings of this invasive wasp species. Together, we keep the Asian hornet manageable and prevent nuisance.
Asian hornet threatens insects
The Asian hornet has been causing major problems in the Netherlands for several years. This wasp species eats many insects, such as bees and other pollinators. A nest of Asian hornets eats approximately 11 kilograms of insects in one season. That's about 100,000 creatures. This causes damage to beekeepers, fruit growers, seed growers, and horticultural businesses.
Nuisance for residents
Residents often experience nuisance from the Asian hornet. This mainly happens when nests hang low. The Asian hornet fiercely defends the nest. This can lead to multiple stings. Early intervention is therefore important.
Embryonic nests in spring
During this period, the queen builds a small first nest. We call this an embryonic nest. This nest is often in a quiet place, such as in a birdhouse, under an awning, in a shed, in a wood pile, or on a roof edge. An embryonic nest is a light brown ball the size of a ping pong ball. These small nests seem harmless, but later grow into large nests with much nuisance. Always have these nests removed before the first workers are born. Do not do this yourself, but make a report.
Reporting in the municipality of Amstelveen
- Via the Fixi app or this website
- Email: (control coordinator on behalf of the beekeepers' association)
- WhatsApp: 06 44 07 42 21
The removal of these nests is free.
Recognize the Asian hornet
You recognize the Asian hornet by:
- A size of 2.5 to 3 centimeters
- A black thorax
- Yellow tips on the legs
- One broad yellow-orange band on the abdomen
The European hornet looks different. This species is larger (3 to 3.5 centimeters), has a reddish-brown thorax, and a largely yellow abdomen. The European hornet is native and beneficial. This species even eats Asian hornets. You do not need to report or control the European hornet.
More information
More information can be found on the website bijenhouders.nl (external link).
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