First Asian hornet nest in Poland eliminated but experts warn more to appear next year
The invasive species is seen as a particular threat because it preys on honeybees.
Poland has officially become the first European country to eradicate an Asian hornet nest, a formidable invasive species notorious for preying on honeybees. The nest, discovered in the village of Wielka Wieś near Kraków in mid-October, contained around 1,000 workers, several dozen queens, and males, according to researchers. Though Asian hornets, also called the yellow-legged hornet, are no more dangerous to humans than their European counterparts, they pose a significant threat to bee populations.
Scientists predict that more nests will likely emerge next year, as young queens have already departed to establish new colonies, potentially seeking shelter in warm, dry locations like underground or storage areas. The presence of Asian hornets could cause beehives to cease functioning, as bees struggle to recognize the new threat.
Poland's bee colonies have grown by 54% over the past decade, supporting an ecosystem valued at 5 billion zloty (€1.1 billion). This nest's surprising location, around 150 km from the closest known site in the Czech Republic, suggests potential movement via vehicle transportation.
Written by urgent.news from Notes from Poland's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
