Overview

• The attack unfolded about 45 minutes into a Ferienspiele event attended by roughly 150 children at Waldfreibad Walbeck.
• A local beekeeper identified the insects as Vespa velutina and authorities removed a nest hidden beneath a water slide.
• On-site first aid was administered to all those stung and none developed allergic reactions.
• Since March 2025 the species’ established status has placed eradication duties and costs on property owners.
• National and regional beekeeping groups now rely on networks like NABU, Velutina Netzwerk Saar and the Beewarned.de platform to monitor and report nests.