The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has confirmed that Asian giant hornets have been found in Washington State after two separate confirmed sightings in British Columbia last fall. 

The Asian giant hornet is a predator of honeybees. A few hornets can kill an entire hive in a matter of hours. The hornets then defend the hive as their own and take the brood to their own nest to feed their young. 

Information on how to identify and report Asian giant hornet sightings can be found at agr.wa.gov/hornets.

These hornets have a venom that is more toxic than any local bee or wasp.  Please use caution and report sighting timely. Please share this information with beekeepers, family, and friends as well.

STAY INFORMED

You can stay updated about the Asian giant hornet two ways: 

• Join the Asian giant hornet watch Facebook group.

• Join the WSDA pest program email list. (Be sure to uncheck the other topics and only leave the Asian giant hornet topic selected when you sign up.)