Asian hornet detected in Poland near Kraków

The invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) has been confirmed in Poland for the first time, posing a significant threat to honey bee populations. A fully developed nest was discovered in Wielka Wieś near Kraków, and individual specimens were also observed at an apiary belonging to the AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków.

Experts, including Dr. Łukasz Nicewicz from the University of Silesia, warn that these hornets are particularly dangerous because they hunt at the entrances of hives. This behavior can restrict the movement of bees, potentially leading to the starvation of entire colonies as foragers are unable to return to the hive with food.

The species first appeared in Europe in France in 2004 and has since spread to neighboring countries such as Germany and the Czech Republic. Scientists are concerned by the timing of the sightings, as queens are currently mating and burying themselves in the ground to prepare for nest-building in the spring.