Georgia Renews Call to Report Invasive Hornet Nests
An invasive pest that threatens honeybees and other important pollinators is once again drawing attention in Georgia, and it's a reminder for producers throughout the Southeast to stay aware.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is urging residents to watch for yellow-legged hornet embryo and primary nests as overwintering queens emerge and begin establishing new colonies. Commissioner Tyler Harper says early detection is critical because eliminating nests at this stage prevents queens from producing workers and reduces the risk of larger secondary nests later in the year.
The department says it has spent nearly three years tracking, trapping, and working to contain the invasive pest after the first live yellow-legged hornet in the open United States was confirmed near Savannah in 2023. While confirmed detections remain in Georgia and neighboring South Carolina, agriculture officials in other Southeastern states, including Florida and Alabama, continue monitoring for the invasive pest because of its potential threat to honeybees and other pollinators.
If you believe you've found an embryo or primary nest, experts say do not attempt to remove it yourself. Instead, contact your state agriculture department, extension office, or a licensed pest management professional.
