Bavaria sees corncrake breeding rebound and warns of rising wasp activity

Conservation groups in Bavaria report a marked increase in fledgling corncrakes (Brachvögel) this year, with 51 young birds recorded in the Altmühltal and Donaumoos regions—more than double the numbers seen in each of the three preceding years. LBV head of meadow‑nesting protection Verena Rupprecht credited targeted meadow management and protection measures for the improvement, saying the results show that sustained actions can reverse the species’ decline.

At the same time, a warm, dry spring has triggered a surge in wasp and hornet sightings across the state. LBV specialist Tarja Richter warned that while wasps are protected under German nature law, their growing presence near homes is causing stress for residents. She advised using a water spray to deter nests, noting that blowing air or trap use can provoke aggression and may be illegal. The Bavarian Environment Agency underscored that removal of nests is only permitted in exceptional cases.