Pennsylvania Invasive Species: Yellow-Legged Hornet
- Length
- 1 hour, 15 minutes
- Language
- English
- Note
- Registration is required for all events, regardless of cost.
- Event Format
- Virtual | Live
About the Live Webinar
The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive species that threatens honey bees, native pollinators, and beekeeping. As this hornet expands into new regions, early detection and accurate identification are essential to limiting its spread. In this webinar, Benjamin A. Powell will introduce the yellow-legged hornet, examine its native range and invasion history, and discuss its potential impacts on pollinators, agriculture, and ecosystems. Participants will learn how to identify the yellow-legged hornet, distinguish it from similar species, and contribute to monitoring, early detection, and reporting efforts.
Pennsylvania has identified over 250 invasive plants, insects, pathogens, and animals that significantly impact the environment and agricultural production—causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses each year. The Pennsylvania Invasive Species Webinar Series is dedicated to addressing this critical issue. Each session highlights timely topics related to invasive species in Pennsylvania and beyond, including species identification, management strategies, ecological impacts, and key concepts in invasion biology. The series is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a gardener, naturalist, land manager, educator, or simply curious about invasive species, these webinars provide a clear introduction to the issues at hand—no prior knowledge required. By raising awareness and sharing practical information, the series aims to empower communities and spotlight the ongoing efforts of state agencies and partners working to protect Pennsylvania's landscapes and resources.
This event is being offered at no charge to participants.
Registration is required to receive the link to access the webinar.
A link to the recorded webinar will be emailed to registrants within ten business days after the live event. The recording will be accessible for six months from the event date.
- BeekeepersÂ
- Master GardenersÂ
- Natural resource professionalsÂ
- Agricultural producersÂ
- Extension educatorsÂ
- Invasive species management professionalsÂ
- Anyone interested in pollinator protection and invasive species
- Where the yellow-legged hornet originates and how it spreadsÂ
- How to identify the yellow-legged hornet and distinguish it from native speciesÂ
- Its potential impacts on honey bees, native pollinators and ecosystemsÂ
- The challenges associated with its establishment and spreadÂ
- Current monitoring and early detection effortsÂ
- How to recognize and report suspected sightings
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