Asian “killer” wasp: is it dangerous to people and biodiversity?

From time to time news appears in the media about the death of people from the sting of an Asian hornet, which is sometimes described as “murderous”. Actually, although the bite of this species is more painful, it’s not much more dangerous than that of a native “normal” wasp (Vespa crabro).

The biggest problem is that the number of Asian hornets is increasing, reason why the stings are more and more numerous and the anaphylactic reactions too. The allergic reaction is life-threatening; In our country, in recent years there has been an average of three deaths per year. But the Asian hornet is above all a threat to bees (for them, it is really a killer) and to ecosystems where it is an invasive species.

Asian hornet: how to recognize it

In Europe, the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) or velutina makes an appearance from April or May and its activity intensifies in summer and autumn. It likes a humid and temperate climate, without very rigorous winter conditions.

the asian hornet It is much larger than the common wasp. The males can reach 3 cm and it is easily recognized because the dorsal part of the head and the abdomen are completely black, except for a thin yellow line that crosses the abdomen.

To avoid its bite, you have to check if there is a nest when removing bushes, take firewood or uncover a chest (access to water pipes). Garages, sheds and garden sheds are also ideal places for embryonic nests, which are spherical, no bigger than a tennis ball. A definitive nest, which is usually located in tall trees, can measure up to one meter in height.

If you come across an Asian hornet, try to walk away, don’t scare her or try to kill her, because when it feels threatened it releases pheromones that attract other wasps and they can attack you in a group, which is very dangerous. Keep in mind that in a small nest it can accommodate 1,800 wasps and 10 times more if it is a large nest.

What can happen if you are stung by an Asian hornet?

The sting of the Vespa Velutina It can be more painful and its effects longer, but in principle it does not entail more risk than the sting of another species of wasp. Only people with an allergy to stings should be very careful. People who know they are allergic to bee venom always carry epinephrine with them so they can instantly medicate.

The Asian hornet only attacks if it feels threatened. It is not more aggressive but sometimes people can enter their territory inadvertently because their embryonic nests are small and well hidden. A massive attack can also be fatal if the person has a weakened immune system.

If you’ve been bitten, The first thing you should do is move away from the area in case there are other wasps. You will instantly feel a sharp pain, like a pinprick. Then the sensation is like that of a burn. The pain lessens over time, but can last up to 24 hours.

After the bite, clean the area without rubbing too much, apply water and neutral soap, and then ice.

No one can know if you are going to have an anaphylaxis reaction, so It is convenient to be prepared to go to the doctor if any abnormal reaction is observed, such as generalized itching, discomfort and anxiety. Mucosal inflammation, abdominal pain, nausea, and dizziness follow. Symptoms can get worse quickly.

If it has occurred more than one bite or is affected a mucosa in the mouth, nose or eyes, it is necessary to see a doctor.

Are Asian hornets a problem for biodiversity?

The first specimens of the Asian hornet arrived in France almost 20 years ago. In Europe, the Asian hornet has found favorable territory to spread because it has no predators or competition with other species.In Spain, they are more frequent in the northern half.

the asian hornet is a voracious killer of bees, which it hunts because they are the main food for its larvae. Throughout its life, each velutina can capture up to 30 bees. Therefore, there is an obvious equation: more velutinas equals fewer bees. They attack both melliferous and wild ones, which is one more threat to the ecosystems where these animals are pollinators.

What to do if you find a nest?

The first thing is to protect yourself. If the nest is outside your house, you should close all doors and windows to prevent them from entering. Wherever the nest is, the best thing to do is call the emergency telephone number 112. You can also call 012 (autonomous community helpline numbers), the services of forest or rural agents in your municipality, or the fire brigade if you are in a city. The nests should always be removed by specialized personnel.