Citizens urged to report Asian hornet sightings to protect nature and safety
The invasive Asian hornet threatens bees, agriculture, and public safety in the Netherlands. Reporting sightings helps prevent damage to ecosystems and reduces risks to your surroundings. Act now to stop their spread.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Asian hornet (invasive alien species) |
| Impact | Threatens biodiversity, agriculture, beekeeping, and public safety |
| Size | Queens up to 3.5 cm, workers 2–3 cm |
| Distinctive Features | Black thorax, yellow-orange abdomen band, orange face, black legs with yellow tips |
| Reporting Platform | waarneming.nl |
| Action After Report | Specialist verifies sighting; Zoekgroep Hof van Twente traces and removes nests |
| Cost to Citizens | Free, even on private property |
| Region | Netherlands (spreading across Europe) |
The municipality of Hof van Twente, in collaboration with national agencies, plays a key role in managing invasive species like the Asian hornet. Their efforts focus on early detection and removal to mitigate ecological and economic damage.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Help combat the Asian hornet: report your sighting
The Asian hornet is a large wasp species that does not naturally occur in the Netherlands. In recent years, the species has been spreading rapidly across Europe. This is concerning because this invasive alien species causes damage. In spring, Asian hornet queens take flight. They search for a sheltered spot to build a nest, such as in a cavity wall, shed, carport, veranda, or nest box. If a queen is caught in time during spring, no nest with hornets will form. This prevents damage to nature, agriculture, and beekeeping. It also ensures greater safety in your surroundings!
How can you help?
Do you see an Asian hornet or a nest? Follow these steps:
- Stay calm, do not make sudden movements, and keep your distance.
- Take a clear photo, if it is safe to do so.
- Report via waarneming.nl, indicate precisely where you saw the hornet or nest. After your report, it will be checked whether there may be a nest nearby.
After your report, a specialist from waarneming.nl will verify whether it is an Asian hornet. If so, the Zoekgroep Hof van Twente will be deployed. They will trace the nest using transmitters, after which a certified exterminator will safely remove it. This will cost you nothing, even on private property.
How do you recognize the Asian hornet?
The Asian hornet can be identified by:
- a black thorax with a yellow-orange band on the abdomen;
- an orange face with a black outline around the eyes;
- black legs with yellow tips;
- larger than a wasp, slightly smaller than the European hornet: queens up to about 3.5 cm and workers 2–3 cm.
Why your report is important
- For nature: the Asian hornet eats many bees and insects, posing a risk to biodiversity.
- For our agriculture & beekeeping: less pollination means less fruit and honey.
- For your safety: hornets can be aggressive around the nest and may sting multiple times.
Thank you for your help! More info: www.hofvantwente.nl/aziatische-hoornaar