A dangerous critter has reappeared in a European country for the first time since the 1970s.
What is going on?
The oriental hornet was spotted near Split in Kaštela quarry, Croatia Week reported in September.
She said that the insects were at their best and that a sting could be likely. The species was previously seen in Trieste, Italy, and may have traveled there by ship. It went to neighboring Slovenia and then down the Adriatic coast to Dalmatia, the region covering the southernmost part of Croatia.
“It is known to have been present before, but there was no literature data from the 1970s, so it retreated and is now returning to its old habitat,” Nediljko Landeka of the Institute of Public Health told Dnevnik Nova TV, for Croatia Weekly.
Why is this important?
Strictly speaking, the oriental hornet may not be an invasive species in Croatia, which is at the limit of its range. But its long absence suggests it may at least be a nuisance.
Invasive species are plants and animals that are not native to an area. They can spread quickly, taking over ecosystems that have not evolved or adapted to their presence. Without natural predators or similar mechanisms to keep them in check, they push out other species and unbalance the environment.
“The reappearance of the oriental hornet serves as a reminder of how species can re-emerge after decades and why caution is vital when encountering them,” the outlet noted.
The oriental hornet looks like the European hornet but is reddish brown, and its yellow bands do not reach the end of its abdomen, as shown by the Entomological Sciences Program of the US Army Public Health Center. It should also not be confused with the Asian hornet.
The fascinating creature can convert solar radiation into electrical energy, according to National Geographic. But it is also a threat to the decline of honey bee populations, according to the Italian Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie.
What is being done about the oriental hornet?
Hornet stings can cause an allergic reaction and can even be fatal, so residents have been advised to avoid nests. The treatment consists of washing the area with soap and water, as well as applying an antiseptic and cold compress. Those who experience worsening symptoms should seek medical attention immediately, according to Croatia Week.
If the bug continues to spread, officials may have to take action. In the UK, for example, the government has trapped Asian hornets and used minute tracking devices to locate their colonies. And in the United States, where the spotted lanternfly has become an invasive hazard, biologists have recommended removing certain invasive trees to spur local birds to develop an appetite for the planthopper.
This is because native plants are crucial to support native animals, and invasive species feed on each other. You can help by reviving your yard and controlling pests naturally.
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