For the first time in recorded history, giant hornets that are native to Asia have been spotted in the United States.
Beekeepers in Washington state have been reporting cases of beheaded bees being found, which is undoubtedly the doing of these massive hornets.
These hornets can grow up to 2 inches long, making them much bigger than any of its biological counterparts in the US. Experts and beekeepers have expressed their grave concerns and worries as these hornets can be deadly for both honeybees and humans alike.
CNN referenced Washington State University experts who explained that multiple stings from these hornets can potentially be lethal to humans as well. In Asia, these hornets are colloquially referred to as ‘murder hornets’ for this reason.
Entomologist and beekeeper Susan Cobey likened these hornets to monsters that are depicted in comic books. From their incredible size to the potential lethality, Cobey said that the hornets are creatures that even experts like her are scared of.
As of yet, scientists and officials have yet to confirm how these insects arrived to mainland US from their native homes in Asia. Some suspect that a queen bee may have made it via the many international cargos that are unloaded in the American west coast. One expert said that sometimes, hornets could even be placed there on purpose.
The first sightings of these hornets were reported in December of last year. Scientists explained that the new sightings are the result of the queen bee waking up from its hibernation. They suspect that the bees are trying to form colonies on their new homes.
Experts said that the hornets are especially dangerous and active in the late summer and early fall. During this time, the whole colony prepares to feed the queen as it gets ready to hibernate. An active colony means increased raids with honeybees as well as more interactions with humans.
The way that hornets keep their colony apart is brutal even for the animal kingdom. Hornets viciously and methodically kill the worker bees and eat all the honey and larvae that are left unprotected. As aforementioned, their stings are so powerful that if can be lethal even to humans who are not allergic to bee stings.
Therefore, Washington’s Department of Agriculture asks that people do not try to handle the hornets themselves. When you spot a hornet, back away to safety and immediately report to the officials. Share this important story with your friends, and be sure to follow us on Facebook to keep yourself updated.
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