HORNET

Is a hornet sting dangerous?

“Venom toxicity can be dangerous in case of multiple bites” also informs Dr. Dzviga. Beyond 20 to 30 bites the person can have a serious reaction, the signs of which can be close to an anaphylactic shock.

​

The Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) is also called the Japanese giant hornet and has been referred to as a "murder hornet" in the media.

It is the largest species of hornet in the world. The Asian giant hornet is native to temperate and tropical regions of China, Korea, Japan and northern India.

The Asian giant hornet is a predator that preys on insects, including honey bees, for food. These hornets represent a serious threat to Quebec's agriculture   and the diversity of native species, including local bees and wasps. They can also destroy honey bee colonies in less than 24 hours.

These hornets are usually not interested in humans, pets, or large animals, but they can aggressively attack humans and animals if they get too close to their nest or a colony of insects. honey bees they are attacking.

It cannot be confirmed that it is really the Asian giant hornet without observing a specimen or a photograph. The identification of the insect must be established by a specialist, such as an entomologist or a taxonomist.

​

Species the Asian Giant Hornet is Often Confused With

The Asian giant hornet can be confused with other species of wasps and insects present in Quebec. Some wasps may be longer and thinner and others are larger, but they can be distinguished from hornets by certain visual characteristics of their bodies. Here are the most commonly reported species that may be confused with the Asian giant hornet.

​

european hornet

The European hornet, Vespa crabro, is often confused with the Asian giant hornet. This species was accidentally introduced to eastern North America more than 160 years ago, and is currently widespread in parts of Quebec. It is a very large wasp (2.5 to 3.5 cm), but it is much smaller than the Asian giant hornet.

​

White-spotted wasp

The white-spotted wasp (Dolichovespula maculata), also called the bald hornet, which is commonly observed in Quebec, also lodges in large nests. It is also a social wasp, but much smaller than the Asian giant hornet. White-spotted wasp. This species of wasp (in the genus Dolichovespula) is in the same family as the yellow and black striped wasps, although it is almost entirely black with some white markings on the head, thorax and abdomen. Its head is quite large and this wasp can reach about 1.2 to 2 centimeters (¾ inch) in length. 

​

Means of struggle

The best control is to prevent the introduction of any invasive pests.

Other means of control such as trapping as well as methods of physical destruction.

​