North Carolina Officials Set Traps to Combat Invasive Yellow-Legged Hornets in Matthews
Invasive yellow-legged hornets have been detected for the first time near Matthews, North Carolina. A local homeowner reported unusual hornet activity at a hummingbird feeder, prompting the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to take action. These hornets, known for preying on honeybees and other pollinators, pose a significant threat to local ecosystems. As an invasive species, their population could grow rapidly without intervention. The species was first identified in the Southeast near Savannah, Georgia, in 2023, and has since been a concern for South Carolina, which has been actively working to control its spread. In response to the recent sighting, approximately 200 traps have been set up around Matthews and Union County to capture and monitor the hornets. 
