Asian hornet population rises in Germany, beekeepers and officials on alert

Asian hornets, originally detected in southwestern France in 2004, have quickly spread across Europe and are now causing major concern in Germany, especially in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The State Office for Nature, Environment and Climate Protection reported that 487 Asian hornet nests were identified in the region so far in 2024, with 262 nests or their queens successfully removed. These numbers highlight the scale of the invasion and the urgency with which officials and local communities are responding.

Sightings have become common in cities like Duisburg, Herne, and Wesel, raising anxieties among both residents and especially beekeepers. Experts warn that Asian hornets frequently prey on honeybees and pose a real risk to bee populations and honey production. In response, beekeepers have taken defensive measures such as installing wire mesh at the entrances to hives and maintaining dense vegetation around apiaries to help shield their colonies from attacks.

Authorities stress that proper nest identification should only be done by trained professionals because native hornet species are protected under German law and improper removal can harm local ecosystems. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected nests by submitting photos through official websites. Under new federal guidelines, the Asian hornet is now classified as a “widespread and established” species, so decisions regarding nest removal are made by local officials. In some areas, property owners must cover removal costs, while in others, expenses are publicly funded. Experts emphasize that, although the Asian hornet usually poses little direct threat to humans, disturbing nests may provoke attacks, so people should remain vigilant.