What Is the Murder Hornet?

The Murder Hornet is primarily found in various regions of Asia, including Russia, Korea, China, and Japan. As of 2019, it was also spotted in Canada and more recently in Washington State, USA. Visually, this hornet is recognizable by its orange head, brown antennae with yellow-orange bases, and dark eyes. Its thorax is dark brown, and its wings can measure between 3.5 and 7.5 centimeters (1.37 to 2.95 inches) in length. The forelegs are notably brighter than the mid and hind legs, and its abdomen features alternating dark brown and yellow-orange bands. The stinger can reach lengths of up to 10 mm (0.4 inches), and multiple stings can be lethal due to the venom's potency.

Why Is the Murder Hornet Dangerous?

The threat posed by the Murder Hornet extends to both humans and honey bees. For humans, while a single sting may not be fatal, multiple stings can lead to severe consequences, especially for those allergic to its venom. In Japan, this has resulted in an annual death toll of 30 to 40 individuals. Medical guidance in China suggests seeking help after being stung ten times and urgent care after thirty stings.

For honey bees in the U.S., the situation is even more critical. The Murder Hornet preys on various insects, including honey bees. While Japanese honey bees have developed strategies to counter this hornet, other species lack such defenses. A single Murder Hornet can decapitate up to 40 bees in a minute, posing a significant risk to colonies. Given that nearly 40% of honey bee colonies in the U.S. have already perished in recent years, the introduction of this hornet could exacerbate the decline, jeopardizing the pollination of crops worth $15 billion annually.

How Can We Fight Back Against Murder Hornets?

If you encounter a Murder Hornet, it’s crucial to refrain from attempting to eliminate it yourself. Multiple stings can be life-threatening even for non-allergic individuals, and if the queen survives, she will simply establish a new hive. Instead, report sightings to the Washington State Agriculture Department or your local agricultural authority. These agencies are equipped to manage invasive species and track their spread, which is vital for protecting our ecosystems.

Various methods have been employed in countries where the Murder Hornet is native, including nest removal, trapping, and bait systems. However, it’s imperative to seek assistance from professionals rather than attempting these methods independently.

We hope that the incidence of Murder Hornets remains low and that they are swiftly eradicated. However, if they persist, honey bees will face yet another challenge in the years to come.

Interested in making a difference? Here are some organizations and resources you might consider supporting:

Charities for the Bees

• The Honeybee Conservancy
• Operation Honey Bee
• Planet Bee Foundation

Books and Resources

• The Bee Book: A comprehensive guide on creating a bee-friendly garden and beginning beekeeping.
• The Beekeeper’s Bible: An extensive resource covering beekeeping history, practices, and recipes.
• Beekeeping for Beginners: A straightforward guide to the essentials of modern beekeeping.
• 100 Plants to Feed the Bees: A helpful resource detailing plants that support various pollinators.

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