What You Can Do
The most important action right now is public vigilance and accurate reporting—not just in Auckland, but nationwide.
1. Identify & Report
- If you see a suspected hornet or nest, do not disturb it.
- Report with a clear photo or specimen at Biosecurity New Zealand // Online Notifications or call 0800 80 99 66.
- MPI only needs reports with evidence (photo, specimen, or nest location).
2. Share Official Guidance
3. Trapping – Proceed with Care
MPI has deployed around 135 traps in strategic areas. Widespread use of kill traps by the public can harm beneficial insects.
Yellow-legged hornets respond to sugar or protein-based baits. Sugar-based traps work best early in the season, shifting to protein-based as nests develop. Be aware that these traps can cause significant by-catch of bees and other insects.
If you do choose to make a trap:
- Place it only near your own apiary or garden, not in wild or public areas.
- Check it regularly. Release any live non-target insects.
- If you catch a hornet, report immediately to MPI with a photo or specimen.
- When preparing sugar-based traps, incorporate an ingredient that discourages honey bees—such as yeast to promote fermentation or a small amount of vinegar.
This approach supports surveillance while reducing harm to other pollinators.
For those interested in trap designs and bait recipes, there are some links at the bottom of this letter.
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