Invasive ‘murder hornet’ lookalike could destroy pollinators if spread continues, experts warn
A fast-spreading invasive hornet is putting several Southern states on high alert, with scientists warning it could deal a serious blow to honeybee populations and other crucial pollinators.
The species, known as the yellow-legged hornet, is drawing comparisons to the so-called “murder hornet” due to its aggressive behavior and its impact on native insects. Like its larger relative, it preys heavily on bees and other pollinators, raising concerns about broader damage to ecosystems and agriculture.
After first appearing in the United States a few years ago, the hornet has been confirmed in Georgia and South Carolina. Its presence has prompted multiple states in the region to ramp up efforts to contain and slow its spread.
These hornets become active in early spring, with colonies growing steadily through the summer and into fall. Officials say this early period is critical for spotting and stopping them before populations explode.
Experts caution that the danger is significant. Research indicates a single hornet can kill dozens of honeybees in a day and, over time, entire hives can be wiped out. Authorities in South Carolina have warned that if the species becomes firmly established, it could further endanger already struggling pollinator populations.
The first known North American colony was identified in Savannah, Georgia, in 2023. However, the insect had already built a destructive reputation overseas. Originally from Asia, it spread internationally through shipping routes and caused widespread damage to bee populations in Europe starting in the 2010s. One telltale sign of its presence is piles of decapitated bees found outside hive entrances.
Honeybees play a vital role in U.S. agriculture, pollinating crops such as almonds, cherries, and blueberries, and contributing more than $20 billion annually to the economy. A surge in hornet populations could put that system under serious strain.
In Georgia, officials have spent the past three years tracking and attempting to eliminate the hornet. Teams have been setting traps, monitoring activity, and urging residents to report early-stage nests. Catching these nests early is key, as it prevents queens from producing large worker populations later in the year.
This effort is especially focused in coastal counties, where the risk of spread is highest. Authorities emphasize that early detection in the spring can make a major difference in long-term control.
South Carolina began seeing the hornet shortly after its discovery in Georgia, with sightings confirmed in 2024. The rapid expansion led Clemson University to launch a tracking initiative that monitors the insect’s movement and coordinates response efforts.
So far, thousands of traps have been deployed across multiple counties in South Carolina. These efforts have resulted in the removal of more than 100 early-stage nests in the Low Country, along with the capture of thousands of queens. Smaller numbers have also been found in the Upstate region.
Even states without confirmed sightings are taking precautions. Alabama has placed traps around key entry points such as the Port of Mobile, while North Carolina is conducting surveys and encouraging residents and beekeepers to participate in monitoring efforts.
Because honeybees have little natural defense against these hornets, officials say vigilance is essential. The insects are known to attack aggressively and can destroy entire colonies in a short period of time.
Authorities advise against approaching or attempting to destroy a hornet or its nest. Instead, anyone who encounters one should document it from a safe distance, record the location, and report it to local or state agriculture officials for proper handling.
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