An invasive species resembling the “murder hornet” is causing concern in several southern states, as experts caution that its spread could harm honey bees and other vital pollinators. The yellow hornet has been compared to the northern giant hornet due to its ability to threaten native insect populations and disrupt agricultural pollination.
These hornets have been spotted in Georgia and South Carolina since their arrival in the U.S. a few years back, prompting various southern states to implement measures to curb their spread. Yellow hornets typically appear in early spring and multiply through the summer and fall, so authorities are urging caution now.
The threat is quite serious; one study suggests these invasive hornets can kill up to 50 bees in a single day and can wipe out entire hives. The South Carolina Forestry Commission has emphasized that if these pests are allowed to persist in the U.S., they could jeopardize honey bee populations and other native pollinators that are already vulnerable.
The first Chiasis hornet colony in North America was found in Savannah, Georgia, in 2023, but this insect had garnered global attention well before that. Native to Asia, the Asian hornet began spreading through cargo, wreaking havoc on honey bees in Europe in the 2010s before reaching the mainland U.S.
This invasive hornet is notorious for leaving a pile of headless bees at the entrances of their nests. Bees play a crucial role in U.S. agriculture, contributing over $20 billion annually by pollinating vital crops like almonds and blueberries. Given that pollinator populations are already in decline, the presence of the hornet poses a significant risk, which is why several southern states are actively monitoring the situation.
Initial Response
Georgia has been proactive in raising awareness about the invasive species, which the Department of Agriculture has dealt with for three years now. The Plant Conservation Team in Georgia has been tracking, trapping, and attempting to eliminate the yellow hornet since 2023.
“We ask for the public’s help. Early reporting of nests is essential. This will help limit the spread of the queen and mitigate damage to the honey bee population,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper.
Detecting and reporting these nests early is critical as it prevents the queen from creating workers, lowering the chance of larger nests forming later in the year and ultimately aiding long-term control efforts. Coastal residents, especially in counties like Bryan and Chatham, are particularly encouraged to stay vigilant.
Monitoring the Spread
Once the hornets reached Georgia, they quickly crossed the border into South Carolina, where they were first spotted shortly after. In spring 2024, the Asian hornets were confirmed in South Carolina.
In response to this rapid spread, Clemson University launched the Hornet Herald, an informational newsletter tracking the spread and mitigation efforts. Clemson’s Department of Plant Industry and Cooperative Extension has taken the lead in South Carolina, mapping the hornets and providing guidance, including how to set traps.
In 2026, approximately 4,279 traps were placed across several counties, according to the Hornet Herald. In the lowland regions, 102 embryonic nests were eliminated, and in the upcountry, one was also removed. Additionally, 12 queens were trapped in the Upcountry, while more than 3,500 queens were captured in the Lowcountry.
Proactive Measures
While no confirmed sightings have occurred in Alabama, the Department of Agriculture and Industry is taking preventative measures, placing traps around the Port of Mobile and beyond. More than 40 traps are strategically located across the state and are monitored weekly.
North Carolina is also involved, conducting surveys for the yellow hornet, encouraging beekeepers and residents to set and monitor traps to keep track of any emerging populations. Bees, unable to defend against the destructive hornets that can devastate colonies rapidly, are in a vulnerable position. Various states are already taking action to protect both ecosystems and agricultural interests.
If you come across a hornet, avoid trying to destroy it or its nest as they can be very aggressive. Instead, take photos, note the location, and report it to your local Department of Agriculture or authorities right away.
