The control of the Asian hornet by the Province of Utrecht will be scaled down starting this year. There are now so many of these invasive wasps present that eradication is no longer possible. Utrecht therefore chooses - like six other provinces - a targeted approach.
The Asian hornet is a wasp species originally from Southeast Asia that has spread rapidly in Europe and the Netherlands in recent years. It probably arrived in Europe unintentionally around 2004 via the transport of goods. The Asian hornet eats honeybees and other pollinating insects such as bumblebees and hoverflies. This makes it a threat to biodiversity and it has been on the European list of invasive alien species since 2016. For humans, the Asian hornet is no more dangerous than a common wasp. The wasp is only defensive, and possibly aggressive, when there is a threat to the nest or itself.
Since 2020 in Utrecht
The Asian hornet has been present in the Netherlands since 2017. It was first observed in the Province of Utrecht in 2020. To prevent further spread, the province ordered the active detection and removal of all nests until last year. This was done by a professional company, with help and involvement of beekeepers and other volunteers. Because each nest not found and destroyed leads to 7 to 8 new nests in the next season, the number of nests increases rapidly. The costs of eradication also rise significantly as a result.
Targeted approach
The Province of Utrecht therefore chooses, like other provinces, a targeted approach from 2026. This means that not all nests will be removed anymore, but the province will only take action for:
- Nests in or within 200 meters of a Natura 2000 area.
- Nests in heavily frequented places such as playgrounds, schoolyards, sports fields, campsites and recreational areas.
- Other situations that lead to acute stinging danger.
From 2027, the task of removal will be transferred to municipalities, as they are the competent authority responsible for a safe living environment. To support municipalities during this transition phase, the province will still pay all control costs this year.
Seen Asian hornet or nuisance from hornets?
Observations of Asian hornets can be reported with a photo via waarneming.nl external link. This information is used to monitor numbers and spread. If you experience nuisance or there is a risk of stings due to a nest in your living environment, please send an email to invasieve.exoten@provincie-utrecht.nl and provide the exact location. Your report will be processed as soon as possible.
For press information:
cor.van.der.leemputten@provincie-utrecht.nl
06 14 75 81 45