Biosecurity New Zealand has urged Auckland residents to remain alert after a queen yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) was discovered building a nest in Glenfield on Auckland's North Shore.
The nest, found in its early stages, was removed by biosecurity officers on October 17. According to Biosecurity New Zealand's North Commissioner Mike Inglis, the removal eliminated the immediate risk of a colony becoming established.
© NZ Ministry for Primary Industries
"This is the first time we've found a queen yellow-legged hornet in New Zealand," Inglis said. "We responded quickly to this threat, but we need the public's help to eliminate any further risk."
Earlier in the year, two male hornets were detected in the Auckland suburbs of Grafton and Albany. The species is being closely monitored due to its predation on honeybees and wild pollinators, which could impact both native ecosystems and horticultural crops.
"It is a highly adaptable predator with a broad diet, primarily feeding on bees, wasps, and flies, but also ripe fruit and flower nectar, posing a risk to growers," Inglis said. "It may compete with native insects and birds for food, and it has a painful sting."
With warmer months approaching, Biosecurity New Zealand has warned that undetected nests could pose ongoing risks. The agency continues to urge the public to report any suspected hornets or nests to prevent further establishment of the species.
Source: Stuff
