€200 reward per Asian hornet nest removed in Germany

Baden-Württemberg offers €200 per hornet nest to curb invasive species spread

The Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Rural Affairs and Consumer Protection, led by Minister Peter Hauk, is tackling the spread of the invasive Asian hornet. This pest threatens biodiversity, beekeeping, and agriculture, and poses health risks. The ministry is managing the nest removal project, offering a €200 flat-rate payment per nest removed, with a total budget of €100,000 until December 10, 2025.

The Asian hornet, first sighted in Baden-Württemberg in 2014, feeds on insects and affects fruit, wine grapes, and bees. Minister Hauk expressed concern about its expanding presence, which could harm biodiversity and local industries. The Baden Beekeepers' Association manages the nest removal project and disburses funds to nest removers upon submission of a verification form.

To combat this pest, the ministry is training individuals to professionally remove Asian hornet nests and equipping them with specialized equipment. Beekeeping associations are also training local beekeepers and multipliers to handle the Asian hornet and share best practices. Since late March 2025, nest removal funding has changed, with nature conservation authorities only covering removals if there's clear evidence of harm to biodiversity. After reporting via the Asian Hornet Reporting Platform of the Nature Conservation Authority, the State Institute for Apiculture at the University of Hohenheim will provide feedback and a list of certified nest removers.

The ministry is combating the Asian hornet by eliminating young queens in spring and removing nests to reduce its reproduction and spread. With a €200 flat-rate payment per nest removed, the ministry encourages individuals to aid in this effort. The total budget of €100,000 is available until December 10, 2025. The ministry urges anyone who spots individual Asian hornets or nests to report them via the Asian Hornet Reporting Platform.