Scientists Deploy High-Tech Micro-Transmitters to Track Asian Hornets

Asian hornets, known for their aggressive predation on bees and other pollinators, are becoming an increasing concern in the United Kingdom. Recent data indicates that sightings of these invasive insects have reached record levels. In response, the U.K. National Bee Unit has initiated an innovative project employing micro-transmitters to track the flight paths of these hornets, aiming to locate their nests more effectively.

Micro-Transmitters Revolutionize Tracking Methods

The new tracking devices are lightweight, weighing less than 160 milligrams, ensuring that the hornets can fly without significant hindrance. These micro-transmitters feature short antennas and are designed to be easily modifiable and reusable. The U.K.’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has begun deploying four sets of these devices, with successful field tests providing optimism for their broader application.

To attach the micro-transmitters, experts first capture hornets at known sighting locations. After marking a hornet during feeding, researchers attach the device to its waist before releasing it back into the wild. The tracking system allows for triangulation of the hornet’s location using handheld directional receivers, drones, or a mobile application, with an operational range of approximately 0.6 miles.

Public Engagement and Broader Applications

The micro-transmitter initiative is considered a cost-effective response to the challenges posed by Asian hornets. The rechargeable battery adds to its practicality. A community-driven app, Asian Hornet Watch, has been instrumental in gathering data, logging around 30,000 reports last year alone. This app not only helps track hornet sightings but also serves a similar purpose in regions like India, where snake sightings are reported to assist victims of snake bites.

APHA emphasizes the importance of public participation in monitoring these invasive species. They provide a guide for identifying yellow-legged hornets and encourage citizens to report sightings through the Asian Hornet Watch app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. The integration of technology in ecological monitoring reflects a growing trend towards innovative solutions in wildlife conservation.

In a fascinating historical parallel, the CIA once considered a project named Project Acoustic Kitty, which involved equipping cats with transmitters for espionage purposes. This current initiative, while far removed from espionage, highlights the innovative approaches being employed to address ecological challenges posed by invasive species.

The ongoing battle against Asian hornets is not only a matter of protecting local biodiversity but also underscores the critical role of technology and community engagement in wildlife conservation efforts.