Protecting Hornets & Ourselves in Hungarian Forests
- 28 Aug 2024 8:15 AM
We may fear hornets, but they play an important role in the forest ecosystem. Being predatory insects, they help regulate other insect populations, especially pests, which contributes to the ecobalance of the forest. They are also impotant as pollinators.
The Pilis Forest Park offers the following advice to hikers:
Hornets typically swarm from late spring to early autumn, mainly from May to September. During this period, the colony builds its nest and forages for food which means you’re more likely to come across them. The mating season begins in late August for a few weeks, so you may see more of them then.
Hornets are not generally aggressive and usually only attack if they feel threatened or if their nest is disturbed. Nests are most often found in tree hollows or the sheltered corners of buildings. The insects are particularly sensitive to movement or noise near their nests so this can increase the likelihood of an attack.
What if you encounter a hornet?
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Stay calm: Avoid sudden movements to reduce the chances of a hornet attack. If a hornet approaches, try to move away slowly.
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Don’t try to swat or chase it away: this could provoke an aggressive response from the insect. If a hornet starts circling around you, the best course of action is to slowly distance yourself.
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For night-time hikes a headlamp is essential, but its light can attract insects, including hornets. If a hornet approaches you, reduce the light intensity or better, turn it off and walk away slowly.
A hornet's sting is painful and can cause allergic reactions in some people. If no allergic reaction occurs, cool the sting site as soon as possible with cold water or ice to reduce pain and swelling.
Allergic reactions may cause breathing difficulties, dizziness or fainting. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately, as they may indicate a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
The Pilis Forest Park strives to ensure the conservation of our forests and the safety of visitors. If you notice a hornet nest near tourist trails, rest areas or forest playgrounds in forests managed by Pilis Forest Park, please notify the local forestry office so appropriate measures can be taken.
In case of an allergic reaction, call the 112 emergency number.
Together, we can make forest visits safe and enjoyable!
Copy-editor:
Marion Merrick
Language editor and author: Now You See It, Now You Don’t / Surprising Expats / Budapest Retro
Original source: Pilisi Parkerdő Zrt.
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