U.K. Scientists Deploy Micro-Transmitters to Combat Asian Hornets

Asian hornets have gained notoriety as aggressive predators, posing significant threats to bee populations and other vital insect pollinators. While they are not typically harmful to humans, experts classify them as apex predators of insects. In the U.K., sightings of these invasive hornets have surged to record levels, prompting urgent action to safeguard local biodiversity.

In response to this escalating problem, the National Bee Unit has begun testing an innovative solution: micro-transmitters that are fitted to bees to help locate hornet nests. Tracking these nests is often labor-intensive, requiring extensive resources and time. The new technology aims to streamline this process and enhance monitoring efforts.

Innovative Tracking Technology

The micro-transmitters are compact, weighing less than 160 milligrams, making them lightweight enough for hornets to carry without hindrance. According to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), the micro-transmitters can be easily modified and reused, providing a cost-effective approach to tracking these invasive insects.

Field tests have shown promising results, and the APHA plans to deploy four sets of these devices. The process starts with researchers visiting locations where hornets have been spotted. They set up feeding baits and mark the hornets with a pen. If a marked hornet returns to feed, it is equipped with a micro-transmitter around its waist and then released. As the hornet returns to its nest, its movements can be tracked using handheld directional receivers, drones, or a mobile application.

The tracking range of the micro-transmitters extends to approximately 0.6 miles, according to reports from the BBC. The battery packs for these devices are rechargeable, adding to their attractiveness as a sustainable solution.

Community Engagement and Reporting

A crowd-sourced application, Asian Hornet Watch, has played an essential role in this initiative, logging around 30,000 reports last year. This app, which is available for both iOS and Android platforms, allows users to report sightings and helps in gathering vital data.

The technology also features LED indicators and audio signals to indicate signal strength, which guides inspectors directly to the hornet nests. The APHA provides a comprehensive public guide on identifying and monitoring the yellow-legged hornet, emphasizing community involvement in reporting sightings through their online form or the Asian Hornet Watch app.

The introduction of micro-transmitters marks a significant step in managing the threat posed by Asian hornets. This method is part of a broader strategy to address the increasing challenges these invasive insects present. Interestingly, the concept of using technology for tracking wildlife is not new; a historical example includes the CIA’s Project Acoustic Kitty, which aimed to use cats equipped with transmitters for espionage purposes.

As researchers continue to refine their strategies, the deployment of micro-transmitters may prove to be a pivotal advance in the ongoing battle against invasive species, ensuring the protection of native ecosystems and essential pollinators.