Bright yellow legs and an orange stripe on its body — this is the appearance of the uninvited guest that has completely changed life in Galicia in recent years. The Asian hornet, known as velutina, has spread across the entire region in just a decade, becoming a real headache for locals and beekeepers. In the past two weeks alone, three people have died from its stings, and fear of this insect has spread even to the most remote villages.
This hornet is much larger than the species typically found in Spain. It adapts easily to different environments, builds nests both in cities and rural areas, and nothing seems to stop it. In a short time, the number of detected nests has skyrocketed from just a few to tens of thousands, and now they can be found almost everywhere you look. Those who work outdoors are especially at risk — these encounters most often end in tragedy.
Beekeepers lose half their hives
But it’s beekeepers who suffer the most. To the Asian hornet, beehives are easy prey. They hunt bees and other pollinators, wiping out entire colonies of insects. Some beekeepers have already lost up to half of their bees, while attempts to protect their apiaries with traps and electric barriers provide only temporary relief. The scale of the problem is such that even the most modern control methods aren’t delivering the desired results.
Regional authorities are trying to contain the spread of hornets by setting thousands of traps and destroying nests. This year alone, more than 16,000 nests have been removed, and hundreds of thousands of queens have been captured. However, experts note that these measures are not always effective, as traps often kill other beneficial insects, and getting rid of hornets completely has not yet been achieved.
Searching for new solutions
Experts suggest rethinking the pest control strategy. Instead of widespread trap placement, they recommend focusing on targeted nest destruction, especially during the breeding season. Innovative methods are also being discussed, such as using special baits that poison the entire colony through infected individuals. However, these ideas are still being tested, and hornets continue to expand their territory.
Residents of Galicia are forced to be especially cautious, particularly during the insect activity season. Any carelessness — for example, accidentally coming into contact with a nest while working outdoors — can have serious consequences. Although hornets don’t attack without reason, their stings are dangerous for people with allergies or in the case of multiple stings. Doctors advise seeking immediate help if you experience a strong reaction.
While the region searches for effective ways to protect itself, the Asian hornet remains one of Galicia’s main environmental and social challenges. If an effective solution is not found, the scale of the problem may only grow.
