Asian hornets: Danger for the fire brigade and our ecosystems!

Asian hornets: Danger for the fire brigade and our ecosystems!

Nussdorf am Attersee, Österreich - On June 19, 2025, the latest edition of the partner magazine focal point will be published. In issue 3/2025, the topic of Asian hornets is once again in focus, as these invasive insects are increasingly concerned. The fire brigade is often involved in the removal of hornet and wasp nests, which increases the need for knowledge and preventive measures. The use of experts is considered crucial to minimize the risk of humans and animals, especially in the current time in which this type of hornet spreads rapidly in Germany. In cooperation with Zurich and Thuner, fire brigade expert Marco Walter examined how complex basement systems can be optimized in order to cope with the challenges for fire departments.

In this context, a residential fire fire took place in Nussdorf am Attersee, which affected a photovoltaic system that was initially not recognized. A contribution to improving security and knowledge of the risks that such situations can cause. In addition to these practical topics, Maria Führlinger illuminates psychosocial support after stressful missions in her master's thesis.

The dangers of the Asian hornets

The Asian hornets (Vespa Velutina Nigrithorax) was first spotted in Germany in 2014 and has since spread to the entire southwest of the country, right down to North Rhine-Westphalia. This type is classified on the EU list of invasive species and represents a threat to local ecosystems, since it has no natural enemies and can multiply unhindered. According to Dr. Manfred Veraagh, an entomologist at the Karlsruhe Natural History Museum, has grown dramatically in the past ten years, especially in regions such as France and Belgium, where it is a serious danger to bees and other pollinator.

The Asian hornets differs significantly from the domestic hornet, especially from their yellow legs. It builds two types of nests: the primary nest that usually extends to the size of a football, and the secondary nest, which can be up to 70 cm wide and 1.10 meters long. The construction period of the primary nests extends from April to mid -June, while secondary nests are being built from mid -June and can often be found at larger heights.

safety precautions and prevention

nature and the environment are threatened by the aggressive hunting behavior of the Asian hornets. Each nest needs over 10 kg insects per year to feed the larvae. This also includes protected species such as bees and butterflies. This tendency not only endangers biodiversity, but also carries risks for beekeeping, which can ultimately affect the pollination of plants.

The hornet is not particularly aggressive, but stings with allergy sufferers and small children can have serious consequences. In the event of signs such as dizziness, discomfort or vomiting, it is recommended to immediately obtain medical advice. It is advisable to comply with a minimum distance of 10 meters to hornet nests, since approaching can be potentially dangerous.

In order to increase security, nests and sightings of the Asian hornets should be reported to the lower nature conservation authorities, ideally with a photo. In many regions, such as in Baden-Württemberg, reporting platforms already exist to sensitize and protect the population. Prevention remains the best strategy until professional help can be removed from the nests.

The developments related to the Asian hornets and the associated challenges are a central topic in the brand new focal point magazine, which was published on June 18, 2025 and provides detailed information about these and other security topics.