Asian hornet presence confirmed in Uloža, Slovakia

The State Nature Conservancy of the Slovak Republic (ŠOP SR) has confirmed the presence of the invasive Asian hornet in the village of Uloža and its surrounding areas in the Levoča district. Following a report received on September 26, authorities have launched a monitoring operation to locate the nest.

To find the nest, experts from ŠOP SR, the Slovak Paradise National Park Administration, and external volunteers are utilizing various methods, including drone monitoring, telemetry, and the capturing and tracking of individual insects. Once the nest is located, the area will be marked with warning signs to prevent public access, and eradication efforts will be carried out under the supervision of ŠOP SR.

The Asian hornet is an invasive species that poses a significant threat to bees and other pollinators due to its predatory nature. Widespread presence could weaken bee colonies and impact pollination, potentially causing damage to fruit growing and viticulture. For humans, the species poses a risk primarily to those with allergies or if a nest is disturbed.