Georgia Department of Agriculture Asking Georgians to Report Embryo Nests to Limit the Spread of Yellow-legged Hornets in the State

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper is urging Georgians to stay vigilant for Yellow-legged Hornet (YLH) embryo nests, the initial stage of hornet nest formation, as we approach spring, when Yellow-legged hornets will emerge from overwintering. Early detection and control of embryo nests is critical, as targeting them now prevents YLH queens from producing workers, ultimately reducing the formation of secondary nests later in the year and making future control efforts more challenging. It is vital that the queen is controlled along with the nest.

“We are continuing to ask for the public’s help in our effort to eradicate the Yellow-Legged Hornet from our state,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “By reporting sightings of embryo nests early, we can stop the queens from spreading and minimize the damage they cause. It’s crucial that we work together to protect our state’s #1 industry—agriculture.”

Note on YLH Embryo Nests:

Early detection of embryo nests is key to preventing secondary nests from establishing and limiting the spread of YLH in Georgia. Mated queens overwinter (similar to hibernation) and emerge in the spring to find food, establish an embryo nest, and begin producing workers. Embryo nests range in size from a ping-pong ball to a tennis ball and are often found in sheltered spots, such as the eaves of buildings.

What Georgians Can Do:

• Stay Alert: Look out for embryo nests, which are typically smaller than primary and secondary nests. Embryo nests can be found in trees, shrubs, or other elevated locations.

  

  (Embryo nests are typically found in early spring, between March and April.)

  

  (Primary nests are typically found between April and June in late spring and early summer.)

  

  (Secondary nests are typically found in late Summer, between June – December.)

• Report Sightings: If you believe you’ve discovered an embryo nest, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Contact the GDA Plant Protection Division at yellow.legged.hornet@agr.georgia.govor a licensed pest management professional to ensure the queen is properly eradicated.

For more information about yellow-legged hornets, visit https://agr.georgia.gov/yellow-legged-hornet.