Seven queen yellow-legged hornets have been discovered in Auckland, New Zealand, as biosecurity teams work to stop the spread of the dangerous insect.
The first was found in Glenfield last month, the first time this species has been seen in the country.
These hornets are a serious threat to honeybees and wild bees, which are important for pollinating plants. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has now sent more teams to search for more hornets, especially in areas like Glenfield and Birkdale where queens have already been found.
Over 180 traps have been placed in areas where hornets were seen, and more are being added. However, no hornets have been caught in them yet. Five of the seven queens found had started to nest.
MPI is also using protein bait traps to help catch the hornets. A special team of scientists is helping to decide what steps to take next. They are experts in wasp behaviour and control.
To help stop the spread, MPI staff are talking to locals at markets and in the community. People are being asked to report any sightings, but only if they have a photo, an actual specimen, or know where a nest might be.
The search continues with over 100 staff involved in the effort to protect New Zealand’s bees and environment.
