Are you aware of an new threat to our pollinator environment?  

 It has not yet entered Horry County as of 2025.  

The threat is real and it may in the future affect not only our vital pollinators but also the human experience. South Carolina Department of Plant Industry is working hard to slow up its progress northward.

We are talking about the Yellow Legged Hornet.  A non native hornet that has already affect the southern parts of South Carolina and Georgia.

The image above is what it looks like.  It is a hornet not a wasp.

This is an aggressive insect larger than wasps and bees. 

It differs from bald faced hornets (which are white in color)

Note its dark yellow color and yellow legs. Both are similar in size. 

The yellow legged hornet feeds on honey bees and can destroy a colony if hornet numbers are large enough.  



It is also a serious threat to you as it is attracted to your outdoor events. Its can sting multiple times and stings are very painful.

Below are comparison pictures of other bees for your discernment 🔽