Invasive Hornets Put Pollinators, Beekeeping and Food Systems at Risk
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Language Note: this article was originally written in English. Automated translations may contain inaccuracies. For precise information, please refer to the English text. We appreciate your patience.
The Roadmap to Control “Invasive Hornets”, produced by BeeLife and co-signed by Copa-Cogeca, Apimondia and the European Professional Beekeepers Association (EPBA), sheds further light on the growing ecological and economic consequences linked to the spread of invasive hornets in Europe.
According to the publication, invasive hornets (Vespa orientalis, Vespa velutina) exert considerable pressure on ecosystems through intense predation on insect populations. Scientific studies cited in the report identified more than 1,400 taxa in the hornets' diet, with pollinators representing the vast majority of the most frequently hunted species.
Researchers and beekeepers are increasingly concerned about the cascading effects this may have on pollinator-plant interactions, biodiversity resilience and agricultural productivity.
The impact on beekeeping is already severe in several heavily infested regions. The report notes that Vespa velutina was identified by 22% of French beekeepers as a major factor behind winter colony losses during the 2023–2024 season. In some territories, beekeepers report hive losses increasing by up to 30% where hornet pressure becomes particularly intense.
Beyond direct attacks on honeybee colonies, invasive hornets are also generating significant economic costs through nest detection, destruction and additional protective measures. In some areas, traditional beekeeping practices and queen breeding activities are becoming increasingly difficult.
The publication further warns that impacts may extend to wider agricultural systems, including fruit and wine production, due to reduced pollination services and increased risks for harvest workers.
The roadmap therefore, calls for:
professionalised surveillance and nest removal;
stronger scientific research into sustainable control methods and products;
harmonised reporting systems, with open and shareable epidemiological data;
targeted and higher financial support for affected sectors;
greater recognition of invasive hornets as a broader environmental and food-system issue.
If your organisation shares this commitment to environmental, agricultural or social safety, we'd love to have you co-sign the roadmap. Reach out — the more voices, the stronger the message.
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