Drone project tackles tricky wasp and hornet nests

Researchers are investigating how drones could help to remove invasive hornet and wasp nests from hazardous, hard-to-reach places.

The Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao is exploring drone systems that could make nest removal safer, faster and easier in high-risk locations, such as tall trees, cliff faces and steep gullies.

The project, funded by Better Border Biosecurity (B3), begins as warmer weather ramps up efforts to detect and eradicate the invasive yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina).

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 are expected to emerge and begin building new nests.

While thermal-imaging drones are already used to pinpoint concealed nests, the research aims to develop a specialised drone that can remove them remotely.

Bioeconomy Science Institute scientist Dr Justin Nairn, who is leading the project, said the research could add a new tool to New Zealand’s biosecurity toolkit.

The team was assessing whether commercially available drones could be adapted for the task, or whether a purpose-built system was needed.

“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 approach being explored involved equipping a drone with a specialised lance to pierce a nest and inject insecticide.

“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,” Nairn said.

The research builds on the widespread use of drones for pest management.

It will consider systems trialled overseas, such as drones fitted with precision sprays and flame throwers, but Nairn said New Zealand required a 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 Nairn said the project could be accelerated if the technology was 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.”