Government Unveils National Action Plan To Deal With Growing Hornet Population

The Government has announced a national action plan backed by an investment of around €1 million to address the growing Oriental hornet population and protect Malta's beekeeping sector, agriculture and the public.

Officials said the rapid increase in Oriental hornets over the past season has placed unprecedented pressure on bee colonies, reduced honey production and raised safety concerns in residential and public areas.

The strategy includes seven key measures designed to strengthen both immediate response and long-term resilience.

Research and innovation:

A dedicated programme will fund research into trapping systems, monitoring tools and nest tracking technologies through collaborations between scientific institutions, beekeeping organisations and international experts.

New bee colonies:

Beekeepers will receive support to establish new colonies following recent losses, with part of the scheme focused on preserving the native Maltese honey bee, Apis mellifera ruttneri.

Support for existing colonies:

Commercial beekeepers affected during 2026 will receive targeted financial assistance to help offset reduced honey production and prepare for the next season.

Conservation programme:

The Government will strengthen breeding programmes for the Maltese honey bee to increase the supply of locally bred queen bees and reduce reliance on imports.

Hotline and nest removal:

A national reporting hotline and coordinated nest removal programme will be introduced, with particular attention given to the February to March nesting period.

Public awareness:

A nationwide campaign will encourage responsible waste management and provide guidance on reporting nests and reducing conditions that favour the species.

National forum:

A new coordination forum will bring together public authorities, scientists, beekeepers and other stakeholders to monitor progress and guide future action.

The Government said implementation of the measures will begin immediately and continue for as long as necessary to manage the Oriental hornet effectively.

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