The Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis) is rapidly expanding its presence in Andalusia, posing an increasing threat to local biodiversity and key economic sectors. A recent study, part of a groundbreaking Citizen Science project, reveals a concerning 30% increase in its spread between 2023 and 2024. The provinces of Cádiz, Málaga, and Seville are the most affected.
Citizen Scientists Map the Invasion
The “Oriental Hornet Invasion in Andalusia” project, coordinated by the Citizen Science Office of the Fundación Descubre-Consejería de Universidad and the UPO, has created a detailed map of this invasive species’ distribution areas. Dedicated citizen scientists utilized the Observation.org platform and a mobile application in the summer and autumn of 2024 to document the presence of the Oriental Hornet. Initially concentrated in Cádiz and Málaga, sightings were soon reported across all Andalusian provinces.
The collected data, including photos for observation credibility and geolocation, enable precise visualization of the spread. Historical data since 2018 confirms exponential growth, with the hornet’s presence originally largely confined to the province of Cádiz.
Impact on Ecosystems and Economy
The initiative, led by the environmental education association “El bosque animado” (Málaga), issues a strong warning about the consequences of this invasive species. The 30% increase between 2023 and 2024 presents a growing risk to native biodiversity, particularly through the predation of honey bees and other local wasp species. This significantly impacts sensitive economic sectors such as agriculture and beekeeping.
As biologist and scientific advisor to the project, Florent Prunier, explains, the Oriental Hornet also poses a risk to human coexistence and can affect certain crops like grapes. Control with pesticides is ruled out as it would harm local biodiversity. The only effective method to mitigate its spread is nest removal.
Origin and Adaptability of the Oriental Hornet
The Oriental Hornet originates from regions of South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa and has successfully spread to Europe due to its adaptability to the Mediterranean climate. Florent Prunier emphasizes the urgency of establishing early monitoring systems, control protocols, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate its environmental and economic impacts in Andalusia.
The expert team, comprising Florent Prunier, Diego Gil-Tapetado (University of Murcia), Julio Rabdán (Observation.org Spain), and Jairo Robla (Doñana Biological Station), is working intensively on tracking and predicting the spread.
Diverse Diet and Dissemination of Results
The Oriental Hornet is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet includes the remains of birds, small mammals, reptiles, fish, and a variety of invertebrates such as grasshoppers, beetles, and aphids. It also feeds on feces, human food waste, tree sap, ripe grapes, and ivy fruits. Furthermore, it consumes late-blooming plant species and exotic ornamental plants.
To disseminate the study’s findings and raise awareness, the project coordinators have organized a series of events, including “Cafés con Ciencia” and informational workshops. They also participated in regional events such as the Montejaque Ornithological Fair and the Genalguacil Agricultural and Craft Market.
The project is co-financed by various institutions, including the Ministry of University, Research and Innovation, the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology, the Ibercivis Foundation, and other partners committed to promoting Citizen Science and environmental protection in Andalusia.
