If you have been online at all this week, you have probably seen numerous posts and warnings about murder hornets in the United States.  Are we at risk in Central Massachusetts?

I admit, those photos of giant, deadly hornets that are making their rounds on social media are frightening.  The idea that an insect can land a deadly blow to a human with a venomous sting would strike fear in anyone.  If you live in Central Mass, you are already familiar with our high populations of potentially deadly mosquitoes.  Rare, but deadly diseases, such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis, are spread by a simple mosquito bite.  Late last year, Massachusetts had 12 of the 34 reported cases of EEE in the United States, resulting in three deaths.  Central Mass residents are no strangers to potentially deadly insects.  Will we have murder hornets in Central Mass?

Will murder hornets migrate to Central Massachusetts?

According to Entomologist, Bob Russell, the short answer is, no, we should not expect to see murder hornets in Central Massachusetts.  Actually, he says that the east coast is relatively safe from a murder hornets invasion.  Short of a person physically bringing a murder hornet to Central Mass, we should not expect to add this insect to our list of deadly pests.  Currently, the only reported hornets are in the Pacific Northwest.

Experts in Washington State are working to eradicate the deadly insect, noting that the biggest fear is that they could kill the honey bee population.  Though these hornets kill honey bees by decapitating them with their giant jaws, and use the thorax of the bees to incubate their own offspring, honey bees are not completely defenseless when it comes to warding off a murder hornet.  A hive of honey bees will surround a murder hornet, vibrating their wings to create intense heat, essentially frying the hornet.

Mosquitoes remain a threat to your health.  Professional Central Mass mosquito control is essential.

While it is great to know that murder hornets will never likely become an issue in Central Mass, we must not forget that we are home to the deadliest animal on the planet.  Many residents have been spending much more time at home over the last two months.  Springtime weather is bringing us outdoors.  Since we are really only able to enjoy outdoor spaces around our homes right now, it is more essential than ever that you have proper mosquito protection.  Call on a reputable Central Mass mosquito control company to begin your seasonal mosquito control now, to protect your family at home, from mosquito-borne illnesses.

Dave Macchia, Central Mass Mosquito Control Expert