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The largest hornet species on Earth, Vespa mandarinia—commonly called the murder hornet—is notorious for its ruthless predation on honey bee colonies. While hornets play a valuable ecological role, this particular predator decapitates worker bees, overrun entire hives within hours, and feeds its larvae on the hive’s brood, severely threatening commercial and wild bee populations.

When Washington State Agriculture (WSDA) first received reports of northern giant hornets in December 2019—shortly after Canadian authorities discovered two nests in British Columbia—officials launched an immediate response. Subsequent sightings in 2020 and 2021 prompted intensive field investigations in Whatcom County. Using radio‑tagged hornets, investigators traced the insects back to their nests, and deployed traps laced with grape juice, strawberry jam, and other attractants to capture and eliminate the queens and workers.

Protecting Against the Northern Giant Hornet

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Although no confirmed sightings have been reported since the end of 2021, the Washington Invasive Species Council urges residents and stakeholders to remain vigilant. The potential spread of these invasive wasps could inflict significant ecological, public‑health, and economic damage beyond state borders.

Native to Asia, the northern giant hornet is easily identified by its orange or yellow head with black eyes, a dark brown‑black thorax, and a dark abdomen marked by alternating orange or yellow rings that echo the head’s coloration. Workers average 1.5 inches (≈38 mm) in length, while queens can reach 2 inches (≈51 mm) with a wingspan of 3 inches (≈76 mm).

Although the WSDA notes that northern giant hornets rarely attack pets or people, they will sting when threatened. Their stinger is longer than that of honey bees and other wasps, and they can deliver multiple stings with potent venom. Rather than provoke the insects, anyone who encounters a hornet or a hive should report the sighting to the WSDA or the Washington Invasive Species Council, providing a photograph and a precise location.