Asian giant hornets, widely nicknamed “murder hornets,” made headlines after confirmed sightings in British Columbia and nearby Washington State in 2019 and the years following. As the world’s largest hornet species, they can look alarming, and homeowners across Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, and the Lower Mainland want to know how to identify them and what to do if they spot one. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Identify an Asian Giant Hornet

Asian giant hornets are large, typically 3.5 to 5 centimeters long, with a distinctive orange or yellow head, large eyes, and a black-and-yellow-striped abdomen. Their size alone sets them apart from common wasps and hornets found in BC, such as yellow jackets or bald-faced hornets, which are noticeably smaller. They build nests underground, often in forested or rural areas, rather than the aerial paper nests typical of local wasps.

Are Asian Giant Hornets Dangerous?

Asian giant hornets have a painful sting and can sting multiple times, which is a valid reason for caution, especially for anyone with an allergy to bee or wasp venom. However, despite the dramatic “murder hornet” nickname, they are not aggressive toward humans unless their nest is directly threatened. Confirmed sightings in BC and Washington have remained extremely rare since 2019, and to date the species has not become established in the region. Still, correct identification matters, since mistaking a large native hornet for this species (or vice versa) can lead to unnecessary panic or, worse, missed reporting of an actual invasive sighting.

What To Do If You Spot One

If you believe you’ve seen an Asian giant hornet in BC, don’t attempt to remove or destroy the nest yourself. Take a photo from a safe distance if possible, note the location, and report the sighting to the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food’s invasive species reporting line rather than handling it on your own. Confirmed sightings help provincial and federal agencies track and respond to this species early, which is the most effective way to prevent it from becoming established.

Professional Hornet & Wasp Control

Whether it’s an Asian giant hornet, a bald-faced hornet, or a yellow jacket nest on your property, Top Line Pest Control provides safe, professional wasp and hornet nest removal across Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and Vancouver. Our licensed technicians identify the species correctly and remove nests safely so you don’t have to take the risk yourself. Call us today at (604) 551-6504 for fast, effective hornet and wasp control.