Invasive Yellow-Legged Hornets Detected in North Carolina, Threatening Local Beekeeping
An invasive species of hornet, known as the yellow-legged hornet, has been discovered in North Carolina for the first time. The presence of these hornets was confirmed in Matthews, Union County, near the Mecklenburg County line. A homeowner reported unusual hornet activity at a hummingbird feeder, prompting a survey that identified additional adult yellow-legged hornets. Dr. Bill Foote, a state agriculture official, described these hornets as aggressive pests, particularly dangerous to honeybees and other pollinators. The discovery has led to increased surveillance in southern Union and Mecklenburg counties. The state has set over 200 traps in the area to capture and remove the hornets. Beekeepers have been advised to watch for hornets exhibiting hawking-like behavior around hives, as they prey on bees and can cause colony failures. 
