Asian hornet expansion detected in Tirol and Germany

The invasive Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) is expanding its presence across Central Europe, posing a significant threat to local biodiversity and honeybee populations.

In Austria, the species has been detected for the first time in Tirol, specifically in the municipality of Kössen. Experts and beekeepers are currently conducting a time-sensitive search to locate and remove the nest before the population reproduces in late summer and autumn. This follows previous sightings in Salzburg and Vorarlberg.

In Germany, the hornet is also spreading, with a nest recently identified and removed in the Leipzig district of Grünau, Saxony. The species is considered a major threat to pollinators, as a single colony can consume up to eleven kilograms of insects per season. Authorities warn that the hornet's hunting behavior can severely weaken entire bee colonies.