El abejero europeo: aliado natural contra la avispa asiática

A study on the hunting habits of the European honey buzzard (Pernis apivorus) has confirmed that these raptors significantly reduce the number of Asian wasp (Vespa velutina) workers near their nests.

Researchers from the University of Alcalá (UAH) have shown that during their breeding period, birds reduce the abundance of this invader.

In this way, the authors explain, they contribute significantly to the biological control of this wasp that threatens both honey production and crops in Europe.

The European honey buzzard is the only raptor specialized in consuming the larvae and pupae found in the hives of social wasps.

The bird preys on wasp hives, weakening the colony. In social wasps, such as the Asian wasp, colonies function as a unit. This type of predation is crucial, as there is a nutritional dependence among colony individuals.

Workers provide the necessary proteins for the growth of the larvae, and these secrete nutritional substances necessary for the maintenance of the workers. Therefore, by eliminating the brood, honey buzzards hinder the colony’s ability to reach the reproductive stage, leading it to collapse.

The results of this study, the researchers point out, have significant implications for the management of the Asian wasp, an invasive species that has been identified as a threat to the health of citizens and agricultural ecosystems in Europe.

Considering honey buzzards as allies in the fight against this pest would lead to improving protection and expanding the populations of these raptors, with the aim of maximizing their role as biological controllers, conclude the UAH scientists.