European hornet. Photo: ICPonline
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The European hornet, the largest wasp species on the continent, is expanding its range across Finland, researchers report.
Once confined mainly to Southeast Finland, sightings now extend into central and northern regions, including Mikkeli, Tampere, Turku Archipelago and as far north as Kuopio.
Professor Jaakko Pohjoismäki from the University of Eastern Finland said warmer summers and mild winters have pushed the species’ northern limit hundreds of kilometres further than in past decades.
“The hornet is an iconic insect. Encountering one can send a chill down your spine,” Pohjoismäki said. “But compared to other wasps, they’re quite calm.”
Despite its growing presence, the hornet is still uncommon in Finland. Sightings usually involve single individuals, and the species rarely nests near human settlements.
Hornets are most visible and audible in southern regions. Individuals have been recorded across the Kitee–Joensuu line, with dozens of entries submitted to the national Species Information Centre. Hundreds more have been reported in Southeast Finland.
The European hornet (Vespa crabro) is easily recognised by its orange-yellow head and black-yellow striped abdomen. Queens can exceed 3 cm in length. Although its buzzing is noticeable, it is not the loudest of flying wasps. Other large species, such as wood and club-horned wasps, also produce a strong sound in flight.
According to Pohjoismäki, Joensuu residents have reported more sightings this summer than in previous years. He said he observed hornets in his own garden for the first time.
The species is now found widely across southern Finland, with its spread helped by climate conditions similar to those in western Russia. Many insects arrive in Finland via Lake Ladoga and often first establish themselves in North Karelia before moving westward.
Hornets construct their nests with characteristic external vent structures. Although intimidating, they are considered less aggressive than smaller species like bush wasps.
Pohjoismäki noted that the hornet’s arrival also introduces associated species, contributing to biodiversity in Finnish ecosystems.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
