WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. – Department of Agriculture sleuths are getting closer to tracking an Asian giant hornet back to its nest.
Entomologist Sven Spichiger says they trapped a feisty specimen near Blaine last week.
They had trouble gluing a transmitter to a hornet before so they’ve switched to using dental floss to tie the device to the narrow part of its body.
They let the hornet go on Friday and were able to track her for a considerable distance but eventually lost the signal.
Spichiger says their efforts to find and destroy nests will continue as the invasive hornets are in the stage where they’re known to attack and destroy honey bee colonies.
The Department of Agriculture has established a dedicated line for beekeepers in Whatcom County to report attacks on hives.
That number is 360-902-1880 and should only be used for that purpose.
Other members of the public who wish to report Asian giant hornet sightings or other information can contact the department here.