City asks residents for help – keep your distance from nests
The Asian hornet continues to spread in Darmstadt. This invasive species can now be found throughout the city. To minimize the impact on native flora and fauna, the city of Darmstadt is continuing to remove nests from public areas and is asking the public for assistance in locating them.
“We rely on the attention and assistance of the citizens. Please keep your distance from the nests and report your observation to the Darmstadt Environmental Office, ideally with a clear photo,” explains Environmental Officer Michael Kolmer.
Secondary nests can house several thousand animals
The nests of the Asian hornet are usually clearly visible at this time of year and are often located high up in treetops. These so-called secondary nests can reach considerable sizes and house several thousand hornets. Occasionally, they are also built in hedges.
Removing the nests before November can curb further spread. This way, future queens can be removed before they overwinter in sheltered locations and establish new colonies the following spring.
Nests found in public areas can be reported to the Darmstadt Environmental Office by telephone at 06151 13-3313 or by email to umweltamt@darmstadt.de
Do not remove nests on private property yourself
Property owners are responsible for nests on their private land. They must arrange and pay for their removal themselves. The city strongly recommends consulting experts such as wasp advisors or pest control companies.
According to the city, a single sting from an Asian hornet is no more dangerous than that of a native hornet. However, there can be a significant risk, especially for people with insect sting allergies or in cases of multiple stings. Experts can also confirm that the sting is indeed from the invasive Asian hornet and not the native and specially protected European hornet.
Sightings of the Asian hornet can also be reported with a photo via the reporting portal of the Hessian State Office for the Environment and Nature Conservation: www.hlnug.de/hornissemelden.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/acl/stip)
Featured image: Stock photo
