Georgia Hornets Threaten Bees: Report Sightings!

Georgia is actively seeking public assistance to combat the invasive yellow-legged hornet, a species that poses a significant threat to native honeybees and other pollinators. As nest-building season is underway, officials are particularly focused on Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, and Screven counties. These hornets, first identified in the U.S. in Georgia in 2023, can establish large colonies, with a single nest potentially housing up to 6,000 workers.

The primary concern is the impact on pollinators, which are essential for Georgia's agricultural sector, including crops and backyard gardens. A decline in pollinator numbers can lead to substantial economic consequences for beekeepers and farmers. The Georgia Department of Agriculture is urging residents to report any sightings of papery, above-ground nests, often found in trees. This early reporting is critical for eradicating nests before they mature and spread, thereby protecting the state's vital bee population and agricultural economy.