Giant Murder Hornets
New sightings of the Asian giant hornet, which have been nicknamed “murder hornets” have spurred fears that this vicious insect may establish itself in the U.S. Along with this, many fear the presence of this hornet could be devastating to the local bee populations.
This hornet is the largest on the planet, and near the end of 2019 it was spotted in the U.S. for the first time. According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, there are at least four confirmed sightings of giant Asian hornets, which is also the most venomous in the world. These sightings, to date, have occurred near Bellingham and Blaine, Washington. Canada has also reported several sightings in the British Columbia area.
Unfortunately, the presence of Asian giant murder hornets can mean bad news for people throughout North America. Keep reading to learn more about these insects and the potential impact they may have.
Overview of Giant Asian Hornets
Some have described the giant Asian hornet as “a monster cartoon” with a massive yellow-orange face. Some of the most distinguishing factors of this giant Asian murder hornets include:
- Black and yellow striped abdomen
- Typically, 1.5 to 2 inches long
- Large yellow or orange head and prominent eyes
- Creates large colonies that typically nest in the ground
It is also important to note, the stinger on these giant hornets is approximately .25 inches. This means it can pierce through multiple layers of fabric with ease.
Negative Impact of Giant Murder Hornets
Generally speaking, invasive species like the giant murder hornet can wreak havoc on ecosystems. Because there are no natural predators present, many of these species overrun the local flora and fauna, and in some cases, drive it to extinction. However, the Asian giant hornet, which is found in Asia’s warmer climates, is pretty bad news state-side. If this hornet becomes established, it may negatively impact the economy, environment, and the public health of not only Washington State, but the entire country.
Here are some of the negative ways that the “murder” hornet may affect people and life in general.
Murder Hornets Can Kill
Obvious by the name right? While they are being called “murder” hornets, these insects aren’t really interested in killing or even attacking people. In fact, this will only occur if they are defending themselves. Keep in mind, if you are attacked by murder hornets, these hornets are no joke. They can fly at speeds of 25 mph and can sting with vicious force multiple times. If you encounter an Asian murder hornet or a hornet nest, run as fast as possible to safety.
It Can Decimate the Bee Population
When you consider what the hornet can do to bee populations, the effect they have on people are somewhat minimal. If the hornets find a honey bee hive, they will invade it and use their jaws to decapitate all the bees living there. It is possible for these hornets to kill 30,000 bees in just a few hours! Eventually, they will claim the hive as their own.
In Asia, where these hornets are native, the local honey bee populations have defense mechanisms in place. They will surround the giant murder hornet and vibrate, which raises the temperature, essentially cooking this invader until it dies. Unfortunately, North American bees don’t have these same defense mechanisms. If the murder hornet becomes established, it could be the final nail in the honey bee’s coffin.
Venom and Effect on the Body
There is some good news when it comes to giant Asian hornets – they prefer to feast on other critters and usually will not attack humans or pets. They do have powerful mandibles that, can wipe out larger species of insects. Bees and other all other insects are not safe from this predator. Usually, the prey is eliminated by the queen hornet, and then the demolished meal will be taken back to the hive where younger hornets are fed.
However, if the hornet feels threatened, they can and do attack. The sting of the giant Asian hornet is very dangerous. Murder hornets have a quarter-inch stinger and it contains an enzyme mixture and a neurotoxin that will destroy tissue.
In fact, the stinger is so long it can even puncture through the typical beekeeping suit. According to one man who suffered a hornet attack, he stated that it felt like “red-hot thumbtacks being driven into his skin.”
For those who are allergic to wasp or bee stings, it may result in anaphylactic shock. Sometimes, Asian hornet attacks may even be lethal. Even individuals who don’t have allergies can be seriously affected and even killed by multiple stings. According to some reports, these hornets kill as many as 50 people each year in Japan.
How an Exterminator Can Help Get Rid of Hornets?
In China, the locals in the area will attack hornet’s nests using water, fire extinguishers, poison, smoke, water, sacks, and other items, such as a welding gun that has been modified. In certain parts of Japan, the large hornets are used for creating liquor, which is another defense that people in North America, similar to the honey bees, have not yet developed.
Right now, in the U.S., beekeepers and researchers are trying out various homemade hornet traps. The problem is, if the queen hornet is still alive, then the population will continue to grow.
If you happen to find a giant Asian hornet or a murder hornet nest, it is best to report it right away. It is not advisable for you to try to handle the issue on your own. Doing so may cause even more problems and result in you or people nearby being stung.
Calling an exterminator is a smart move, as they can use the proper, safe methods to eradicate the “murder” hornets. Also, since there are researchers and experts across the country trying to get rid of the giant hornet, it is important to know where they are distributed across the U.S. This will allow experts to take action, as needed.
Currently, not all exterminators are equipped to handle issues related to giant Asian hornets. As a result, it is up to you to find one that is. If you see this insect or believe you have seen it, contact a local exterminator and ask questions to see if they are able and equipped to deal with giant Asian murder hornets.
You can find a qualified exterminator in our directory. Click here. Your exterminator and authorities can help you to get rid of these dangerous murder hornets and reduce the negative impact they may have.
