Sestu, wasp alert in the city: dozens of reports

The invasion has also reached Sestu. Dozens of wasp nests have been reported in the city. And in some cases, they're even the dreaded velutina hornets, also known as Asian hornets or yellow-legged hornets. These are more ferocious, capable of killing bees and seriously damaging the ecosystem.

And a sting can cause swelling, redness, and even anaphylactic shock. "It's important to keep in mind that if wasps are found on streets and public parks, the Municipal Environmental Office can intervene. But if they're in a private home or courtyard, you should call the fire department."

The most threatening species include the European hornet , which can be recognized by its yellow legs, but also by its darker plumage and a yellow-orange band toward the stinger and a narrow, lighter yellow line near the waist; and the reddish European hornet. Other insects are often confused with them, such as the much larger spotted hornet, the wood wasp, with its much more elongated body, or even some types of flies, which are very small: but these are harmless.

The full article by Giovanni Lorenzo Porrà in L'Unione Sarda, on newsstands today and on the Digital App.