In the ongoing battle against the invasive yellow-legged hornet, a new strategy is about to be deployed, and it's a game-changer. But here's where it gets controversial: should we use advanced tracking to fight nature?
Biosecurity New Zealand is gearing up for the next phase of the eradication project, utilizing cutting-edge tracking technology from the Netherlands. This technology will be used to trace the hornets back to their nests, a crucial step in controlling their spread. Out of the 30 queen hornets discovered on Auckland's North Shore, over half showed signs of nesting, a worrying trend.
The Ministry of Primary Industries is preparing to exploit the hornets' instinct to build nests by using this tracking technology. North commissioner Mike Inglis confirmed the arrival of the high-tech equipment, a result of collaboration with international and local experts.
In the latest update, 19 queen hornets were found with nests or evidence of nesting, and seven worker hornets were spotted in nests. Inglis revealed that the tracking strategy will target male worker hornets specifically.
Here's how it works: when male hornets are caught, they will be fitted with a small tracking device, allowing experts to follow them back to their nests. This method has proven successful in the UK, offering hope for New Zealand's battle.
Timing is critical, as the hornets' nesting behavior is expected to change soon. Biosecurity NZ is also considering the use of Vespex, a bait poison, as part of a multi-pronged approach. This poison, if carried back to the nest by male hornets, could potentially eliminate the entire nest population.
The strategy combines trapping, surveillance, and electronic tagging, guided by scientific evidence and a technical advisory group. Public involvement has been exceptional, with nearly 4400 notifications received. Tomorrow, a forum hosted by Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital will gather national experts to discuss the yellow-legged hornet response.
The focus is on spreading awareness across the North Island, not just in Auckland. The Bay of Plenty group, established in 2018, plays a vital role in coordinating community responses to biosecurity risks and advocating for improved protections. Natalie Rutene, TMBC's comms and event manager, emphasized the importance of keeping the community informed about threats like the yellow-legged hornet.
TMBC's online Partners Forum will provide an in-depth look at the operational response, potential impacts on various industries, and guidance for early detection. Attendees can engage directly with experts, fostering a collaborative effort to tackle this invasive species. And this is the part most people miss: how do we balance the need for eradication with the potential environmental impact of such measures? The debate is open, and your thoughts are welcome.
