Researchers are investigating how drones could take the sting out of removing invasive hornet and wasp nests from hazardous, hard-to-reach places.
The Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao is exploring cost-effective drone systems to make nest removal safer, faster and easier in high-risk locations like tall trees, cliff faces and steep gullies.
The project, funded by Better Border Biosecurity, begins as warmer weather sees efforts to detect and eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) ramp up. The aggressive pest poses a significant threat to New Zealand’s honey and pollination industries. No hornets have been detected since April, but surveillance is increasing as any mated queens that survived winter would be expected to emerge and begin building new nests.
While thermal-imaging drones are already used to pinpoint concealed nests, the new research seeks to develop a separate, specialised drone to remotely remove them.
Bioeconomy Science Institute scientist and project leader Dr Justin Nairn says the research aims to add a new tool to New Zealand’s biosecurity toolkit.
He says the team is currently assessing whether commercially available drones can be adapted for the task, or if a custom, purpose-built system is required.
“Removing hornet and wasp nests from heights or challenging terrain poses a significant risk to pest control contractors. A remotely operated system would allow them to treat nests from a safe distance, with their feet firmly on the ground.”
One innovative approach being explored involves equipping a drone with a specialised lance to pierce a nest and inject insecticide directly inside.
“This mechanism would replicate current manual eradication methods without requiring contractors to put themselves in harm's way by working at heights and around the dangerous nests,” says Dr Nairn.
The research builds on the widespread use of drones for pest management in New Zealand. It will consider systems trialled overseas, such as drones fitted with precision sprays and flame throwers, but Dr Nairn says New Zealand requires a highly tailored approach.
“This project is focused on finding the right solution for our unique environment – one that is highly effective, practical and meets New Zealand’s safety, environmental, biosecurity and aviation requirements.”
The team expects to identify its preferred drone system within a year, although Dr Nairn says the project could be accelerated if the technology is urgently needed to support the current hornet response.
“While we are cautiously optimistic that the yellow-legged hornet has been or will be fully eradicated by the time this technology is ready, the system will offer much broader benefits.
"It will strengthen how New Zealand responds to future incursions of any invasive pest that forms nests in challenging terrain. It could also support the management of already established invasive wasps.”
Beyond the project, the Bioeconomy Science Institute has been actively supporting the yellow-legged hornet response since the incursion was detected. Its experts are helping shape the eradication strategy, locate hornets and their nests, identify specimens and investigate possible entry pathways.
