How do we prevent nuisances caused by the Asian horned beetle?
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a non-native species of wasp that is becoming increasingly widespread in the Netherlands. This insect is easily recognized by its black color with orange-yellow accents and the large nests that often hang high in trees.
What do you need to know?
The Asian hornet is usually not dangerous to humans unless you get close to a nest. A sting hurts more than that of a common wasp and can be dangerous in people with allergies. Fortunately, the hornet stings less often because it does not gravitate to sweet foods. It lives primarily on other insects.
Life Cycle
Spring: the queen awakens from hibernation and builds a small nest in a sheltered spot. Summer: the large nest is built, often high in the tree. This can grow up to a meter in size and contain hundreds of hornets.
Autumn: the hornets die, the queen leaves the nest and it is left empty. These empty nests often remain visible for a long time.
What can you do in the event of a nest?
Until the end of 2025, the province controls nests. Report a nest through Waarneming.nl, they assess whether action is needed.
Nests higher than 10 meters and further than 10 meters from buildings are usually not removed because they pose little risk. On private property, the owner is responsible.
As of Jan. 1, 2026:
Inside built-up areas: municipality responsible. Outside built-up areas: province responsible. Do you see a nest in the public space? Report it via the "Outside Better" app with clear photos.
What else do we do?
We continue to invest in knowledge and new techniques to better control invasive species, such as the Asian hornet. We apply new methods immediately.
Stay alert!
The Asian hornet will remain in the Netherlands. By reporting nests in time, you will help reduce damage to nature and risks to people.