Key Takeaways:
- Biosecurity New Zealand is urging Aucklanders to be on the lookout for yellow-legged hornets or nests, as the number of sightings continues to climb.
- Thirty-three queen hornets have been found in the Glenfield and Birkdale areas of the North Shore, with 21 having developed nests or signs of nests.
- The hornets have not yet spread from the initial area, but officials are taking precautions to raise awareness and engage the public.
- Trapping efforts have been extended to 5km from the initial detections, with over 617 traps set to eradicate the invasive insects.
- The public is encouraged to report any sightings of the hornets or their nests, and to not disturb them if found.
Introduction to the Yellow-Legged Hornet Infestation
The yellow-legged hornet, a highly invasive and destructive insect, has been spotted in increasing numbers in the Auckland area, specifically in the Glenfield and Birkdale suburbs of the North Shore. Biosecurity New Zealand is urging residents to be vigilant and report any sightings of the hornets or their nests. The hornets, which are nearly twice the size of the common wasp, pose a significant threat to local honey and wild bees, and can wipe out entire colonies. With thirty-three queen hornets already found, and twenty-one of those having developed nests or showing signs of nests, the situation is being closely monitored by officials.
Efforts to Contain the Infestation
Biosecurity New Zealand has set up signs in the affected areas, including in the suburb of Milford, to raise awareness of the issue and encourage the public to report any sightings. However, officials are keen to emphasize that the hornets have not yet spread from the initial area, and the signs are merely a precautionary measure. Mike Inglis, Biosecurity NZ north commissioner, stated that the goal is to engage the public and encourage them to report any sightings, rather than to signal that the hornets have spread. Inglis also emphasized the importance of not disturbing any nests or hornets if found, and instead contacting the Biosecurity NZ hotline for expert assistance.
Trapping and Eradication Efforts
To combat the infestation, Biosecurity New Zealand has set over 617 traps in the affected area, using a combination of carbohydrate and protein traps. The trapping efforts have already been extended to 5km from the initial detections, and officials are considering further expansion. Inglis stated that staff will consult with the technical advisory group overseeing the issue to determine the best course of action. Additionally, tracking technology from the Netherlands has arrived, which focuses on worker hornets and tracks them back to the nest. This technology is expected to aid in the eradication efforts, particularly as worker hornets begin to appear over the next 4-6 weeks.
Public Engagement and Reporting
Biosecurity New Zealand has received over 4860 messages from the public so far regarding the hornets, demonstrating a high level of engagement and awareness among residents. Inglis encouraged the public to continue reporting any sightings, and to take pictures of the hornets or nests if found. He emphasized the importance of not disturbing the hornets or nests, and instead contacting the Biosecurity NZ hotline for expert assistance. By working together, officials hope to eradicate the invasive insects and prevent them from spreading further.
The Importance of Eradication
The yellow-legged hornet poses a significant threat to local ecosystems, particularly honey and wild bees. If left unchecked, the hornets could wipe out entire colonies, having devastating consequences for the environment and the economy. It is essential that the public remains vigilant and reports any sightings, and that officials continue to work tirelessly to eradicate the infestation. By taking a proactive and collaborative approach, it is possible to prevent the spread of the yellow-legged hornet and protect the local environment. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial that residents remain informed and engaged, and that officials continue to take a proactive and effective approach to addressing the infestation.