In recent years, the United States has faced a significant and deadly threat from the giant killer wasp, often referred to as the “murder hornet.” This invasive and highly destructive insect, known as the largest and most dangerous of its kind globally, first appeared in the country in 2019 and has since continued to spread fear and havoc.
The most recent sighting of this menacing creature occurred in Washington state in 2021. This discovery alarmed the region, as the “murder hornet” exhibited aggressive behavior, attacking anything that crossed its path. Measuring an imposing 4.4 centimeters in length, this insect was detected on August 11, just 3.2 kilometers from where it was first identified in December 2019, near Blaine, Washington, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA).
These hornets are notorious for their ability to decimate entire beehives. Their formidable mandibles allow them to kill and decapitate thousands of bees, taking over the hive and defending it as their own. They ruthlessly tear apart the brood to feed their offspring, leaving devastation in their wake. This is especially concerning given the critical role bees play in pollination and maintaining ecological balance.
Adding to the danger, the venom from a single sting of a “murder hornet” has the potential to kill a human. These hornets inject a significant amount of venom into their prey. While fatalities from a single sting are rare, the risk remains significant and alarming.
In response to this development, the WSDA is taking proactive measures to combat the threat. Live traps are being set up in the area, and entomologists plan to tag captured wasps to track them back to their nests. The proximity of this sighting to the US-Canada border has also prompted officials in that region to install additional traps to prevent the further spread of these deadly insects.
The emergence and spread of the giant killer wasp, or “murder hornet,” serves as a stark reminder of the threats nature can pose. With its potential to devastate bee populations and harm humans, efforts to monitor, control, and mitigate this invasive species are crucial to safeguarding both ecosystems and public safety. The ongoing efforts by state and regional authorities highlight the importance of swift and effective action in managing invasive species to protect the environment and human health.
I Opened My Own Auto Repair Shop to Make Women Feel Safe
A female mechanic has gone to lengths to ensure women and non-binary people feel comfortable and at ease whenever they have car troubles. The 25-year-old used to be “anxious” when she needed assistance, and male-dominated repair shops were the only thing available, so she started her own business.
\
Zoe Cog, from Manchester, UK, created a safe space for women to look for car assistance, a repair shop she called AutoCog. Although she started out as a receptionist in the industry, she became a mechanic herself. It was then she realized women constantly felt anxious about entering male-dominated repair shops, fearing discrimination or belittling.
“I’ve been the girl on the other end, worried about walking into places like garages and feeling anxious, and although it’s never easy, I like to think I’m an approachable, friendly female who has created a place where you can walk in and feel at ease, regardless of your gender,” she said in an interview.
“I get pleasure out of taking the pressure off the girls and can give as good of a service as any male-owned garage, but also build trust with the people I’m working with,” she added.
The response to Autocog surpassed all expectations, according to her. “Honestly, the response to my garage has been phenomenal and beyond anything I’d ever expected. It’s been an incredible rollercoaster. I’ve had so much support and positive feedback from not just women but also some incredible words from men,” she revealed.
She continued, mentioning how some feedback also proved why a female-owned repair shop was much needed. “Although some of the comments have proved why such a place was needed for us women — that’s for sure. I’ve had people question my ability to do the job as a woman, but I don’t let it get to me,” she said.
Many women are all about fighting gender stereotypes, and inspiring stories come up every day online. An excellent example is Edine, a young woman who stopped removing facial hair and shared how it has changed her life with the world.
Leave a Reply