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Third Death in Two Weeks From Asian Hornet Stings Puts Galicia on Alert

Experts urge stronger control in response to lethal encounters from hidden ground nests.

Overview

  • The latest victim, 55-year-old hunter Javier I. P., died in Cospeito after reportedly stepping on a concealed nest; he was allergic and could not be saved despite attempts to administer adrenaline.
  • This case is the third in less than two weeks in Galicia, following fatal attacks in Dozón and Irixoa that occurred during land-clearing work.
  • The Xunta reports intensified control in 2025 with about 16,400 nests removed and roughly 230,000 queen captures, alongside a reported drop in swarm alerts.
  • Researchers and apiculture groups say removal teams are overburdened, many nests—often underground—go undetected, and more resources and better surveillance are needed beyond the summer peak.
  • Officials note unusually high activity into autumn and advise the public to avoid DIY removals, report nests to specialized teams, and for people with allergies to carry adrenaline; the Cospeito victim’s family also reported a long ambulance wait.