Asian Hornets Threaten Swiss Beekeeping

Published: 2024-11-21

The Asian hornet invasion is wreaking havoc on Swiss beekeeping, with devastating impacts on local bee populations.

Beekeeper Patrick Gubler lost nearly 45 colonies, amounting to about three million bees, due to hornet attacks.

In response, a crowdfunding campaign has been launched to help him rebuild his hives.

The Asian hornet, an invasive species from China, has been spreading across Europe, with Switzerland seeing a significant increase in nest sightings this year.

The hornets pose a severe threat to honeybees, which are crucial for pollination.

Despite calls for action, beekeepers and hornet fighters feel unsupported by the government.

The Swiss parliament has urged more decisive measures, but bureaucratic hurdles remain.

The situation underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to combat invasive species and protect vital ecosystems.