The invasive Asian hornet is rapidly spreading in Andalusia, posing a growing threat to bees,…

The invasive Asian hornet is rapidly spreading in Andalusia, posing a growing threat to bees, apiaries, and ecosystem balance. First identified in Algeciras in 2018, this species has now been found in urban areas of Córdoba and Huelva. Beekeepers and experts warn that these hornets are highly adaptable, competitive, and capable of preying on bees and other pollinators to feed their larvae. Jairo Robla, a wasp expert at the Doñana Biological Station, noted that two species of invasive wasps are already present in Andalusia, with a third recently arriving. Their aggressive nature allows them to outcompete local species, particularly around apiaries, where high densities can severely impact beekeeping operations and reduce essential pollinator populations.