Cyprus: united to keep Oriental Hornet under control

The Mediterranean shares landscapes, culture... and also threats. One of the most recent is the spread of the oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis), an invasive species that decimates bee colonies, compromises crop pollination and affects the balance of biodiversity. To address this challenge, beekeepers from Spain and Italy travelled to Cyprus at the end of August, where they were welcomed by the Pan-Cypriot Beekeepers Association, a pioneer in controlling this pest.

The Spanish beekeepers and technicians from COAG and the Italians from UNAAPI (National Union of Italian Beekeeping Associations) - members of BeeLife European Beekeeping Coordination - spent four days visiting field sites with Cypriot beekeepers in iconic locations such as Antelia Bee Park, Athalassa National Park, the Tremithousa apiaries in Paphos and the Troodos Mountains. All of these sites are under severe pressure from this invasive species. 

There, the Cypriot hosts showed the results of years of experience in hornet management. In spring, they use sugar traps to capture the founding queens, and in summer, they use protein baits in plastic bottles that combine food with selective insecticides, ensuring that the hornets themselves carry the poison into their nests. These methods, born of necessity and local innovation, have become an example for the rest of Europe.

Beyond technical learning, the mission reinforced a clear message: only by joining forces will European beekeepers be able to manage environmental threats. As one participant summed it up: "Sharing practices gives us strength, but the most valuable thing is feeling that we are not alone in facing a common enemy."

Vespa orientalis is not only a concern for beekeepers. Its spread poses a risk to biodiversity, as it also preys on other pollinating insects, and raises public health issues, as its stings can be painful and dangerous for people with allergies. Even tourism, an economic pillar of countries such as Cyprus and Spain, could suffer if the presence of these insects on beaches, in restaurants and in natural areas increases.

The trip ended with a toast between Cypriot, Spanish and Italian beekeepers. Beyond the friendship forged, everyone agreed on the importance of transferring these experiences to the European level. The fight against invasive species, such as the Asian hornet, requires cooperation, research, and institutional support.

Cyprus offers a lesson: with creativity, perseverance and networking, European beekeepers can be key players in defending bees, agriculture, tourism and the environment.