Attack of the Killer Hornets

There has been a huge uptick in hornet attacks in China this year by the Asian giant hornet, known scientifically as Vespa madarinia. Since July the hornets have killed 42 people and injured around 1,700 people in the Shaanxi province.

The Asian giant hornet is the largest hornet species in the world. These hornets are found throughout East and Southeast Asia, in countries such as China, Korea, Japan, India, and Nepal. These hornets are very big, given the name "giant", they are about 1.4 to 1.5 inches in length, roughly the size of a human thumb. The queens are even bigger, and can grow longer than 2 inches.

What makes the Asian hornet so deadly is its venom. People are allergic to the venom which can cause fatalities. The venom of this hornet destroys red blood cells, which can result in kidney failure or multiple organ failure and death. The venom starts working at the sting site to immediately destroy the cellular tissue.

Stinger marks look like little bullet holes. The hornets are attracted to human sweat, alcohol, and sweet flavors and smells. They are especially sensitive to when animals or people run away, which triggers them to attack.

The Asian giant hornet's breeding season is in September and October so this is probably one reason why they've been so aggressive recently. Other reasons why there have been more attacks could be due to unusually dry weather in the Shaanxi province. An arid environment makes it easier for the hornets to breed. Another cause could be urbanization with humans moving into hornet habitat. Other additional factors could be increased vegetation and a decrease in the hornets' enemies such as spiders and birds because of ecological changes.

Currently the Chinese government has deployed thousands of police officers and locals to destroy the hives. Around 700 hives have been removed so far. To protect yourself wear long sleeves, and if you find yourself near a hive avoid it by calmly walking away. Don't panic if one buzzes around you, if you panic and flap at it or run away the hornets will attack and chase after you.

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