Insects in summer: Tips for safely dealing with bumblebees and wasps

Insects in summer: Tips for safely dealing with bumblebees and wasps

In the sunny season, bumblebees, wild bees, hornets and wasps increasingly take up their place in our gardens and settlements. This brings with it one or two challenges, especially in Naumburg and Nebra, where the dry weather promotes additional insect activity. According to the information from mz.de Many of the species mentioned can be classified as beneficial insects and do not have the bad reputation that often accompanies them.

A hornet or wasp only stings when it feels threatened - these reserved insects are usually just looking for food or a safe place to nest. A wasp sting may be painful, but it is usually harmless if there is no allergy. It should be noted, however, that both bees and wasps can cause allergies, but hornets rarely do. Their importance in the ecosystem should not be underestimated: Bumblebees and wild bees not only pollinate our edible plants, but also contribute to biodiversity.

Special protection regulations

According to the Federal Species Protection Ordinance, these insects are particularly protected. This means that it is forbidden to harm or kill wild animals of these protected species. This regulation applies to both the open countryside and closed residential areas. Exceptions may only be made in special cases - for example in the case of a nest of wasp species that are not particularly protected, where knowledgeable people or specialist companies can work to carry out a relocation. However, killing the animals should always be the last resort.

Particularly protected species such as hornets, wild bees and bumblebees require permission from the Lower Nature Conservation Authority to relocate. In the fall, all nest inhabitants die, except for the queen, who looks for a safe place to overwinter. It is to be hoped that even in urban areas, the beneficial insects will continue to have a chance to find their place in the garden and nature and thus contribute to a healthy ecosystem.

Public awareness and assistance

Not only in Naumburg, but also in other cities such as Berlin, emphasis is placed on educating citizens about the behavior and importance of insects. Fears, which are often unfounded, must not be a hindrance. The Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and the Environment provides various information sheets for this purpose. The information sheet “When bees, bumblebees, hornets or wasps bother you” is particularly helpful for many people in clearing up misunderstandings and reducing uncertainty. More information can be found on the website Senate Administration.

In addition, NABU in Berlin offers a hymenoptera service that can be helpful in relocating hornets, especially if they nest near children or cause damage. It is an important step in bringing humans and animals into harmony.

The diversity of insects

Insects are the most diverse group of animals on earth, with almost a million scientifically described species worldwide. Over 33,000 species of insects live in Germany, which accounts for around three quarters of all animal species in the country. These little creatures are true all-rounders: they sow our plants, spread seeds and are at the top of the food chain of many animals. However, the challenges posed by habitat loss, the use of pesticides and climate change are significantly affecting this diversity. Therefore, there are already numerous species that are threatened with extinction.

The NABU|Naturgucker Academy has exciting courses on offer that are dedicated to the diversity and knowledge of insects. This commitment is intended to help promote appreciation for these small beneficial creatures. Here are some of the courses offered:

In any case, awareness of the importance of insects to our environment is of utmost importance. Further information about the courses can be found on the website NABU Academy.