The Asian giant hornet, popularly known as the “murder hornet,” has been officially eradicated from the United States, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This milestone comes five years after the invasive species was first detected in Washington state in 2019, marking the end of a concerted effort to eliminate the hornets and protect the nation’s ecosystems.
The Threat of Asian Giant Hornets
The hornets posed a significant threat to honey bees and other pollinators, which play a crucial role in agriculture and ecosystem health. Asian giant hornets are known for their ability to destroy entire beehives in a matter of hours, decapitating the bees and feeding the larvae to their young. Their sting is also more potent than that of honey bees, presenting a greater risk to humans, particularly in cases of multiple stings.
Discovery and Eradication Efforts
The hornets were first discovered in North America in British Columbia, Canada, in August 2019, and shortly thereafter in Washington state. DNA evidence revealed that the U.S. and Canadian populations were introduced separately, likely through shipping containers or international travel.
WSDA eradicated the first nest in October 2020 and successfully removed three additional nests in 2021. All nests were located within tree cavities near the Canadian border. The last confirmed sighting of an Asian giant hornet in Washington occurred in 2021. While there was an unconfirmed sighting reported in October 2024, no hornets were found during subsequent trapping efforts.
Collaboration and Community Involvement
The successful eradication was achieved through extensive collaboration among federal and state agencies, international partners, and community members, particularly in Whatcom County, Washington. Residents were encouraged to report sightings and set traps to assist in locating nests. This grassroots effort was instrumental in tracking and eliminating the invasive species.
Dr. Mark Davidson, Deputy Administrator at USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, hailed the eradication as a “landmark victory in the fight against invasive species,” highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts in achieving this outcome.
Precautionary Measures
Despite the success, WSDA plans to continue monitoring traps in the affected areas throughout 2025 as a precaution. Officials have emphasized the need for vigilance, as other invasive hornet species continue to pose threats in different parts of the world. Regions like Georgia and Spain are currently grappling with invasive hornet populations, underscoring the ongoing global challenge of protecting pollinators and ecosystems.
A Victory for Pollinators
The eradication of the Asian giant hornet in the U.S. represents a significant win for pollinator protection and agricultural sustainability. Pollinators such as bees are essential for the production of numerous crops, and their safety from predators like the Asian giant hornet is critical for maintaining food security and biodiversity.
While the hornet has been eradicated from U.S. soil, experts stress the importance of early detection and rapid response to future invasive species threats, ensuring continued success in safeguarding the nation’s ecosystems.