Invasive Eastern horse hornet nests discovered for the first time in Slovenia

(Photo: Pixabay)

Experts estimate that there may currently be 25-30 active nests in the Koper area, and that significant populations may have formed in other parts of the coast. The association noted that although the nests of the Eastern horse hornet are similar to the native European species, several queens can develop in them in a single year, which may result in even more nests the following year. The insect’s sting is particularly dangerous, and it is the second most venomous species of horse hornet in the world after the giant hornet, they emphasized. Greek Alexandros Papachristoforou, who helped identify the nests, pointed out that the spread of the species was previously hindered by cold winters, but climate change has brought milder weather, and individuals have been spotted in Slovenia in the past two years.

For the first time, nests have been identified, which could have serious consequences

The Slovenian Ministry of Agriculture wrote in a statement that although the eastern horse hornet is not on the European Union’s list of invasive species, it is considered a potentially dangerous species. It can cause damage to agriculture, especially beekeeping, fruit and grape growing, but it can also negatively affect tourism and health. The authorities have therefore asked residents of the coastal region, especially farmers and beekeepers, to report any specimens or nests they see.

MTI