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Invasive Hornets Swarm Luxembourg: Experts Warn of Population Surge
8 Jan
Summary
- Asian hornet population in Luxembourg has surged, with nests multiplying rapidly.
- The invasive species poses a dangerous threat to human health and native ecosystems.
- Experts warn of a potential population boom next year, straining removal efforts.
Luxembourg is facing a significant increase in its Asian hornet population, an invasive species that has been present since 2020. Environmental consultants and hornet experts have observed a dramatic surge in nests this past summer, noting that authorities are struggling to keep pace with their rapid spread.
These hornets pose a dual threat to human health and the local ecosystem. Their venom is more toxic than native species, and multiple stings can lead to severe health implications. Furthermore, their resilience to cold temperatures and rapid reproduction rate of up to 25 new nests annually could destabilize the region's ecological balance.
Efforts to control the population are underway, but Luxembourg has too few trained responders. While some municipalities are exploring training programs, innovative solutions like drone-based sound detection are being researched elsewhere to aid in faster nest identification and removal, crucial for protecting vital pollinator populations.
