Invasive giant hornet which can wipe out beehives declared eradicated in US

A dead northern giant hornet removed from a nest in a tree in 2020 (Elaine Thompson/AP)

The world’s largest hornet, an invasive breed dubbed the “murder hornet” for its dangerous sting and ability to slaughter a honey beehive in a matter of hours, has been declared eradicated in the US.

The giant insect was first spotted five years ago in Washington state near the Canadian border.