Berlin, September 4 – A dead Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) was discovered in Berlin-Neukölln on August 12, prompting concerns among environmentalists about the potential establishment of this invasive species in the German capital. This marks only the second confirmed sighting of the Asian hornet in Berlin, with the first recorded in 2023.
Discovery and Identification
The discovery was made by a man who found the insect on the ground, photographed it, and reported it via an app. Biologist Melanie von Orlow from the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (Nabu) Berlin confirmed the identification to the German Press Agency (dpa). Von Orlow, who heads Berlin’s Hymenoptera service, stated that the discovered specimen is likely a male (drone), which can fly significantly further than females.
The location of the find was near Delbrückstraße, but the associated nest has not yet been located. This suggests that a nest could be anywhere in the vicinity of the discovery, or even further afield within Berlin or its surrounding areas.
Previous Sighting and Eradication Efforts
The first documented sighting of an Asian hornet in Berlin occurred in 2023, when a specimen was found in a restaurant in Schöneberg. Following this discovery, conservationists successfully located the nest in a chestnut tree and subsequently eliminated the colony.
Threat to Bee Populations, Not Humans
Asian hornets, which are slightly smaller than their native European counterparts, are known for their predatory behavior towards honeybee colonies. This poses a significant threat to beekeepers and local bee populations. The species forms large colonies that can comprise thousands of individuals.
However, experts emphasize that Asian hornets generally pose no danger to humans. They typically build their nests high in tree canopies and only become aggressive if their nest is approached. “There is no reason to panic,” stated von Orlow.
The impact of Asian hornets on other insect species remains unclear, according to Nabu. The species, originally from Southeast Asia, has been rapidly expanding its range across Europe since its first detection in Germany in 2014.
Call for Public Assistance
Nabu is urging the public in Berlin to report any sightings of Asian hornets, preferably with a photo or video, to [email protected]. Von Orlow specifically mentioned that the insects might be found on ivy, which is currently beginning to bloom. Importantly, the public is advised not to kill the insects themselves.
Long-term, the spread of the Asian hornet is expected to continue. Therefore, accurate and timely reporting of sightings is crucial for monitoring and managing the population of this invasive species.
Source: dpa-infocom, dpa:260904-930-630849/1
