Asian hornets are heading for the Costas: how to spot a nest this winter and who to call

Asian hornets, also known as Asian giant hornets, are expanding their territory across Spain, moving from northern areas to the southern coast. These invasive hornets, which primarily feed on bees, have been spotted from Castellón to Málaga, Mallorca, and the Canary Islands. A beekeeper in Álava filmed a nest with around 20 Asian hornets, highlighting the severity of the situation.

The hornets are particularly problematic for beekeepers, as they often swarm around hive entrances, depleting the bee population and endangering the colony. In northern Spain, beekeepers have removed thousands of nests over the past years, but the southern regions are now facing a significant influx. The hornets' presence on the Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands has raised concerns about their rapid spread.

The nests are typically large and well-hidden in trees, making them difficult to spot. Reporting a discovered nest, even if empty, is crucial for authorities to monitor the species' movement and set up traps to control future generations. It is essential to remember that while Asian hornets pose a threat, they are not more dangerous than other wasps and should not be approached or destroyed.

Instead, individuals should take photos or videos from a safe distance, document the location, and report the sighting to the appropriate authorities.