Red alert: Asian hornet threatens Saxony-Anhalt!

Red alert: Asian hornet threatens Saxony-Anhalt!

The news caused excitement among beekeepers and nature lovers: the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) has reached Saxony-Anhalt. In mid-September, the Saxony-Anhalt State Office for Environmental Protection (LAU) confirmed that the first nests of this invasive species had been found both by residents of Colbitz and by official reports. This species of hornet has been spreading in Germany since 2014, initially primarily in the southwest, and has now also reached northern and eastern Germany bauernzeitung.de reported.

The Asian hornet is not only a bugbear for beekeepers, but also a potential threat to native insect populations. According to a recent study by the University of Exeter, it shows striking, flexible hunting behavior. The hornet feeds largely on honey bees, wasps, flies and other insects, which could have serious consequences for the ecosystem. A decline in pollinating insects could even endanger agriculture and biodiversity in the region, it is estimated velutina.de.

Identifying and dealing with the Asian hornet

But how do you recognize this invasive hornet species? Two distinguishable characteristics help with identification: the European hornet has a reddish-brown-black chest section and reddish-brown legs, while the Asian hornet has an entirely black chest section and black legs with striking yellow feet. For correct identification, a photo is required, which can be used to report sightings to the responsible authorities, such as Umweltbundesamt.de explained.

The reports of sightings and nests found are of great importance for the nature conservation authorities in order to be able to initiate appropriate control and removal measures. However, there is great uncertainty regarding legal regulations - responsibilities for nest removal are not clearly regulated. The cost of removing a nest can be up to 5,000 euros. For this reason, the Saxony-Anhalt Beekeepers Association is calling for financial support for the affected beekeepers and residents.

Distribution and risks

The danger posed by the Asian hornet should not be underestimated. This species was placed on the list of invasive alien species by the European Commission in 2016 and has been considered “established” in Germany since March 2025, meaning that there is no longer any obligation to combat it. It can form up to 15 nests in one square kilometer, in contrast to the European hornet, which usually only creates one or two nests. Hunting behavior varies regionally and seasonally, with honey bees often becoming prey, particularly in rural areas.

The Federal Environment Agency points out that the Asian hornet should only be handled by knowledgeable people. Since there is currently no specific biocidal product to combat the Asian hornet in Germany, alternative methods such as manual suction or flame burning are being tested. Unauthorized attempts to remove nests by citizens are strongly discouraged as these may be protected species.

The spread of the Asian hornet requires rapid and coordinated action. The LAU therefore asks all citizens to report sightings and to actively participate in the documentation. Only through cooperation and timely measures can the ecological balance in our region be preserved. The coming winter will show how the situation develops and whether the necessary steps will be taken to protect local nature.