Entfernung von Nestern von Hornissen, Hummeln, Wespen oder Wildbienen

The removal of nests of hornets, bumblebees, wasps or wild bees should only be carried out by experts.

Hornets, bumblebees and wild bees are protected species. While wild bees live individually, hornets and bumblebees are colony-forming insects. However, their nests do not survive longer than one summer. If the aforementioned species were to cause a problem, the nest could only be removed with the consent of the LfU.

Such a permit is not required for wasps; state-forming wasp nests are not protected.

All the insect species mentioned fulfill important functions in the natural cycle. Hornets and wasps regulate mass populations of other insects, bumblebees use their long proboscis to pollinate flowers that bees cannot reach, wild bees ensure a rich harvest in the orchard.

Most species are harmless and do not attack humans. This applies in any case to solitary wild bees.

The nests of social species are built in natural cavities (e.g. woodpecker cavities, or mouse burrows for some species) or in artificial cavities such as attics. Sometimes nest boxes or shutter boxes are also colonized. The nest area (approx. 2 meters around the nest) is defended by the insects, if necessary by stinging. The following disturbances should therefore be avoided

• violent, rapid movements,
• prolonged displacement of the flight path,
• shaking the nest,
• manipulation of the nest or entrance hole,
• direct breathing on the animals.

Outside the nest area, the animals are peaceful. Try to come to terms with the non-protected wasps.

The removal of nests should only be carried out by qualified experts.

Reference to the species concerned.
An application is required for specially and strictly protected species. Information on this can be obtained from the competent authority.

Numerous hymenoptera (e.g. hornets and numerous bumblebee species) are subject to the strict protection of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (Section 44 (1) BNatSchG), while other species, such as the German wasp, are only subject to the provisions of general species protection (Section 39 BNatSchG). While for the latter, there only needs to be a reasonable reason for the removal of nests (e.g. immediate proximity to heavily frequented areas such as terraces, etc.), other species require approval from the responsible LLUR. Before removing such nests (habitats), the Hymenoptera species concerned must therefore be identified beyond doubt. In cases of doubt, professional assistance should therefore be sought.

A hornet sting is no more dangerous for normally sensitive people than a wasp sting.

Further information on hornets can also be found in the "Tiercourier", p. 16.

• to professional pest controllers or
• to the State Office for the Environment of Schleswig-Holstein (LfU)
• in exceptional cases, the municipal, local or city administration can provide advice without being able to act independently.

Applications for exemption from the above-mentioned prohibitions of Section 44 BNatSchG (removal of Hymenoptera nests) must be submitted in writing to the LfU.