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The invasive northern giant hornet, often referred to as the "murder hornet," has been declared eradicated from the United States after an intensive, multi-year effort. The species, known for its menacing nickname due to its size and predatory nature, was first detected in a remote area of Washington State in 2019. Now, officials believe their focused campaign has, at least for now, eliminated the hornet from the region.
The hunt for the “murder hornet” unfolded much like a crime investigation. Early signs of its presence included decimated bee colonies, spurring authorities to seek public assistance in reporting possible sightings. Using traps and search grids, entomologists captured hornets and attached tiny trackers to trace them to their nests. Crews outfitted in protective suits then destroyed the nests using specialized tools like vacuums and carbon dioxide.
Five years after the initial sighting in Whatcom County near the Canadian border, experts announced the species had been eradicated from the area. This outcome has eased fears that the hornet, a native of Asia formally known as Vespa mandarinia, could establish a permanent foothold in the U.S.
“This is a rare moment when humans prevail in managing invasive species,” said Sven Spichiger, pest program manager for the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
Nicole Russo of the U.S. Department of Agriculture hailed the eradication as a “landmark achievement,” while emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance.
Since its discovery, Washington State officials located and eradicated four nests. No new activity has been reported in the area for three years. However, the potential for reintroduction remains, as experts are uncertain how the hornets initially arrived. They speculate the insects could have traveled via shipping containers, vehicles, or plants.
The species, dubbed “murder hornet” due to its size—about an inch and a half long—and its lethal impact on honeybee populations, presented significant ecological risks. Honeybees, crucial pollinators for crops like blueberries and raspberries, were vulnerable to the hornet’s predatory behavior. In one notable incident, a beekeeper found his hive filled with headless bees, a signature of the hornet’s hunting technique.
The northern giant hornet also posed a danger to humans. Its large stinger can pierce protective clothing, delivering excruciatingly painful stings. Victims have described the sensation as akin to “red-hot thumbtacks being driven into flesh,” and multiple stings can be fatal.
The eradication campaign was a community effort, with thousands of residents submitting tips to a hotline. Media coverage raised awareness, and public involvement proved crucial to locating and eliminating the nests. “Without the community’s help, we’d likely still be dealing with this pest for years to come,” Spichiger noted.
Officials remain cautious even as they celebrate. Recent reports of a hornet sighting 100 miles from the original nests are under investigation. Though unrelated to the prior introduction, surveillance efforts in the area are ongoing, with additional monitoring planned for 2025.
Globally, concerns about related species, such as the southern giant hornet recently found in Spain, highlight the broader risks posed by invasive insects.
While the Entomological Society of America has since renamed the species the “northern giant hornet” to avoid cultural stigma associated with its former name, the “murder hornet” moniker continues to resonate with the public due to the insect’s aggressive behavior and ecological impact.
As officials mark this milestone, they stress the importance of vigilance to prevent future invasions, ensuring this “murder hornet” remains a rare and contained threat.
With information from the Washington Department of Agriculture.
