Officials confirm invasive hornet species in York County

YORK, S.C. - An invasive species known as the yellow-legged hornet has been confirmed in York County, raising concerns among state officials, beekeepers and environmental experts. The hornets, which are native to Southeast Asia, pose a serious threat to honeybee populations and local ecosystems.

   Officials with the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry confirmed a yellow-legged hornet nest in McConnells, located in York County, in early December 2025. The discovery marked the first confirmed detection of the invasive species in South Carolina.

   Yellow-legged hornets typically range in size from .07 of an inch ro an inch in length. The head is mostly black, with some front-facing yellow or orange and black eyes. The thorax is black or dark brown. 

   It also has alternating bands of dark brown/black and yellow/orange on the abdomen. The most distinctive feature are the black-brown legs that become yellow on the ends. 

   The yellow-legged hornet was first identified in the United States in November 2023, when it was discovered near Savannah, Georgia. Since then, the species has spread to other areas in the Southeast, prompting increased monitoring and response efforts from state and federal agencies.

   While the hornets are not considered highly dangerous to humans, officials say their presence poses a significant risk to honeybees. 

   Yellow-legged hornets are known to prey on bees by hovering near beehives and attacking returning workers. Over time, repeated attacks can weaken or destroy entire colonies.

   Bees play a critical role in pollination, which is essential for the growth of many crops, gardens and native plants. 

   A decline in bee populations can have widespread consequences, including reduced agricultural yields and disruptions to local ecosystems.

   “When bee populations decrease, the effects ripple throughout the environment,” officials said. Reduced pollination can impact farmers, home gardeners and natural plant life, potentially leading to long-term ecological and economic consequences.

   The discovery of the hornets in York County has prompted concern among local officials and agricultural track and contain the species. Clemson officials are encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings, particularly near wooded areas or beehives.

   Experts advise residents not to approach hornet nests, as the insects can become aggressive if disturbed. Instead, sightings should be reported to local agricultural authorities or Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry for proper identification and removal.

   Officials say early detection is critical in preventing the hornet from becoming established in South Carolina. 

   Continued monitoring and public awareness will play a key role in limiting the spread of the invasive species and protecting the region’s bee populations.

   As efforts continue, state agencies emphasize the importance of cooperation between residents, beekeepers and environmental officials to address the growing threat posed by the yellow-legged hornet.

   To learn more about this species, including making traps and reporting sightings, visit https://blogs.clemson.edu/regulatory/december-2025-yellow-legged-hornet-update-movement-of-ylh-beyond-lowcountry-confirmed/