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Southern giant hornets, sometimes known as “murder hornets,” have been discovered in Europe for the first time. Two pairs of these hornets were found in northern Spain in 2022, with researchers now on a mission to locate their nest. The hornets are native to Asia and are known for decimating bee populations. The first sightings in Spain were reported in the city of Siero in Asturias province. The researchers suspect that the hornets have been nesting in the area for at least a year.
The presence of these giant hornets could have a significant impact on the local ecosystem by hunting native hornets, bees, butterflies, moths, and flies. The researchers are concerned about the potential decline in bee populations and the disruption of pollination processes. Efforts are underway to find and destroy the hornets’ nest, which is believed to be underground and challenging to locate.
Researchers are also conducting genetic testing to confirm the species and are alerting authorities and beekeepers to help manage the situation. It is believed that the hornets may have arrived in Spain on a cargo ship, raising concerns about the need for improved measures to detect invasive species at port cities. The researchers anticipate that more sightings of southern giant hornets may occur in Spain and other parts of Europe in the future.
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