The number of European hornets in Quebec is constantly increasing, and could quickly progress towards large cities like Montreal, according to an expert.
According to Étienne Normandin, an entomologist at the University of Montreal, the presence of European hornets in the province has exploded over the past year or so.
The insect, which resembles a giant wasp, can measure between 18 and 40 millimeters, while the wasp is between 7 and 18 millimeters.
“Right now [on en voit] in western Quebec, therefore in Outaouais and in the Laurentians. The species is progressing very quickly,” declared the specialist in an interview with TVA Nouvelles.
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“We have winters that are much milder, shorter, springs that are warmer and that is perfect for wasps in general. […]. If we have milder winters, [le frelon] can survive longer,” he explained.
Mr. Normandin also estimates that the insect could be seen in Montreal “within one to two years.”
“It is almost exclusively distributed in urban habitats, so cities […] and climate change is making cities warm up more quickly, so they will benefit from these environments.”
Is it dangerous?
Although the European hornet can be impressive with its size, it is no more dangerous than a Quebec wasp. Like the wasp or the bee, the hornet only stings if it feels threatened. It can also sting several times since it does not leave its stinger in the skin.
