MARYSVILLE, Wash. – So-called murder hornets apparently aren’t just setting up shop in Whatcom County.
The state Department of Agriculture says the first Asian giant hornet found in the U.S. outside of Whatcom County has turned up in Marysville.
Entomologist Sven Spichiger says it raises more questions about the invasive species.
But he says the condition of the male hornet leads him to believe it’s a long-dead specimen from last season.
He says slightly different coloring and genetic tests confirm that it’s not from the population that’s been found here.
Spichiger says they’re expanding the department’s trapping program that begins on July 1st and citizen scientists are encouraged to help.
The WSDA says if you see a giant Asian hornet you should call 1-800-443-6684 or report it at their website.