Invasive yellow-legged hornet queen captured as authorities work to stop the species spread [Video]

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC/Gray News) – Authorities in Georgia caught a yellow-legged hornet queen as they ask for the public’s help in eradicating the invasive species.

On Monday, the Georgia Department of Agriculture eradicated an embryonic nest of yellow-legged hornets and captured the nest’s queen.

Just last month, another queen was captured in South Carolina.

The invasive species are native to the tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia, according to a report from CNN. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service reports the insects feed on a variety of other insects, including honeybees.

“If allowed to establish in the United States, these invasive pests could threaten populations of domestic and feral honey bees – some of which are already endangered – and other native pollinators,” the service’s report said.

Georgia’s Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper also said the hornets threaten Georgia’s agriculture industry and could lead …