ALERT: UF/IFAS experts urge residents to watch for, report predatory yellow-legged hornets

ALERT For consumers, gardeners and beekeepers

The sighting of a new predatory hornet, scientifically named Vespa velutina, in Georgia has raised alarm bells among bee experts. This invasive species, known to prey on honey bees and their larvae, has already caused significant damage to bee populations in Europe. The first United States sighting of this hornet occurred last week in Savannah, Georgia, after a backyard beekeeper spotted two of them.

To prevent the spread of this destructive hornet throughout the South,  UF/IFAS experts are collaborating with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. They are determined to raise awareness among residents about what they can do if they encounter or capture one of these hornets.

Special NOTE: Please see the information from this document : https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN1282   The document states that they’re generalist predator, which means they do not only forage for honey bees, but they are a concern for honey bees and our beekeepers here in the U.S. Our colleagues in France have a very difficult time with these hornets.

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