US, Canada Scientists Track 2.8-Inch Murder Hornets After Pacific Northwest Nests Are Destroyed
Updated
Updated · Yahoo! Voices · Aug 2
US, Canada Scientists Track 2.8-Inch Murder Hornets After Pacific Northwest Nests Are Destroyed
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo! Voices · Aug 2
Summary
Scientists in the United States and Canada are still reviewing reported Asian giant hornet sightings after several nests were found and destroyed in the Pacific Northwest.
At up to 1.6 inches long with a 2.8-inch wingspan, the invasive hornet can overwhelm honeybee hives, kill adult bees and feed on the young.
Researchers are focused less on the painful 0.24-inch stinger than on mandibles strong enough to tear through prey, making rapid detection critical if the species spreads.
Officials warn an established population could damage pollination, hitting wild plants, crop yields, food prices and broader agricultural ecosystems.