Asian hornets attack. There are children among the victims
In the water park in western Germany, Asian hornets have launched an attack on children and their guardians. Experts emphasize that problems with this invasive species are increasing.
On Thursday, August 7, in the Waldschwimmbad Walbeck aquapark in North Rhine-Westphalia, an unpleasant event occurred. Children resting over the water began to complain of insects attacking them. Adults also noticed the bites. When the issue was reported to the rescuers, one of them discovered a hornets’ nest under the park slide. The facility was closed and disinfected expert.
Germany. Asian hornets in the aquapark
The specialist arrived at the place stated that aggressive insects belonged to the Asian hornets (Vespa Velutina). In an interview with Bild, Michael Verheyen pointed out that fortunately it was a small nest, with about 400 insects.
He told journalists that Asian hornets are not more aggressive than European. He explained that there are simply more insects in their nests. Ultimately, 12 children and their guardians suffered in the event. Fortunately, nothing more serious happened to anyone, there was no allergic reactions.
Asian hornets with a growing problem?
Verheyen in an interview with “Bild” explained that problems with the described species are increasing every year. He himself already participated in the fifth such liquidation of the nest this year, while in the whole 2024 he was called to Asian hornets only once.
Asian hornets in Europe appeared quite recently. They have been noticed so far in Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Great Britain or Belgium. They also had their nests in Hungary or Slovakia.
