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Cartagena steps up hunt for invasive Oriental hornet after nest is found
Experts are monitoring the city after several specimens were found near the Roman Theatre and La Concepción
Cartagena is stepping up efforts to stop the spread of the Oriental hornet after several specimens were discovered in the city and a nest was destroyed in the La Concepción neighbourhood.
The invasive species was first spotted near the Roman Theatre, confirming earlier concerns that the hornet had reached the municipality. Since then, further sightings have been reported, prompting the council to expand its monitoring programme.
According to Cartagena City Council, teams are continuing to search for additional nests across the municipality.
Officials say residents have played a vital role in the operation, with members of the public sending photographs and reports of suspected sightings to the council's pest control service.
Each report is checked by specialist technicians, allowing them to confirm whether the insects are Oriental hornets and respond quickly if further nests are discovered.
The council is also working alongside local beekeepers and the regional veterinary service responsible for apiculture.
Beekeepers were among the first to raise concerns about the arrival of the species because of the threat it poses to honeybees and other pollinating insects, which play a vital role in local ecosystems and agriculture.
To help residents distinguish the Oriental hornet from other wasp species found in the Region of Murcia, the council has also produced an identification guide highlighting its main characteristics.
Anyone who believes they have spotted an Oriental hornet or found a possible nest is being urged not to approach or disturb it.
Instead, the council is asking people to take a photograph, if it is safe to do so, and email it together with the exact location to the municipal pest control service at controlplagas@ayto-cartagena.es so specialists can investigate.
By responding quickly to new sightings, officials hope they can prevent the invasive hornet from becoming firmly established in the area.
Images: Charles J. Sharp, Sharp Photography / Ayuntamiento de Cartagena
Tel: +34 689 950 735
Control de Plagas Levante provides domestic pest control services in Cartagena, Murcia and across the Mar Menor and surrounding coastal areas. The company handles a wide range of common household pest problems, including:
- Cockroaches
- Bed bugs
- Rats
- Mice
- Ants
- Wasps
- & other invasive insects
Their services cover both treatment and prevention, helping homeowners deal with active infestations and reduce the risk of future problems. 
Control de Plagas Levante works in all areas of the home, from kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms, terraces and gardens, using professional methods tailored to each situation.
Control de Plagas Levante works in all areas of the home, from kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms, terraces and gardens, using professional methods tailored to each situation.Cockroach control, rodent removal and bed bug treatments are among the company’s most requested services. They also offer disinsectisation and pest prevention solutions for homes that may be vulnerable due to climate, humidity or outdoor space.
The company mainly operates in Cartagena and nearby areas, but also works throughout Murcia and along the coast.
Homeowners can request a no-obligation quote, even via WhatsApp, to assess the problem and discuss the most suitable treatment.
To find out more or arrange a visit, use the contact details below to get in touch:
- Phone/WhatsApp: 0034 689 95 07 35
- Email: controldeplagaslevante@gmail.com
- Website: www.controldeplagaslevante.com
- Instagram: @control.de.plagas.levante
- Facebook: Control de Plagas Levante
