Hornets, Wild Bees, Bumblebees & Wasps

Especially in late summer, when it is really warm, conflicts between humans and stinging insects frequently arise. Species that build their nests in and around residential buildings, living in close proximity to humans, are particularly in focus. Germany is home to over 500 wild bee species, more than 30 bumblebee species, and 12 wasp species. However, only two species, the German wasp and the common wasp, usually come into conflict with humans, as these species show a particular interest in sweet drinks and foods.

Wild Bees, Bumblebees, and Hornets

Wild bees, bumblebees, and hornets are protected under the Federal Species Protection Ordinance. These animals are vital components of our ecosystem. Bees and bumblebees primarily serve as pollinators for our plants. Hornets and many other wasp species contribute to the food chain as insectivores, acting as pest controllers.

A relocation or extermination is only permitted in exceptional cases and requires approval from the Lower Nature Conservation Authority.

Wasps

Except for the hornet, wasp species are not specially protected under the Federal Species Protection Ordinance, but they are subject to the general protection of wild animals. This means their nests cannot be removed without reasonable grounds. If such grounds exist, no official permission is required to remove a nest.

As a general rule, nests should only be removed by a professional for safety reasons.

Advice on proper handling of these animals and information on their ecology is provided in the information leaflet by the Hornet Protection Working Group of NABU Oberberg. Here you will find local contacts who can also personally advise you in case of issues.

Overviews and color charts that can help you distinguish individual species based on their appearance or nests can also be found online at aktion-wespenschutz.de and wildbienen.de.

Required Documents

If special reasons necessitate the removal of a hornet's nest, an application for exemption can be submitted to the Lower Nature Conservation Authority. A corresponding application form can be found in the "Downloads" section.

Please consult the Hornet Protection Working Group beforehand (contact persons listed in the "Information Leaflet from the Hornet Protection Working Group").

A fee of 30,- € is charged for the exemption for relocation.

A fee of 50,- € is charged for an exemption from species protection-related killing prohibitions.