The northern giant hornet — commonly referred to as the "murder hornet" — has been officially eradicated in the United States, federal and Washington state officials announced Wednesday. Why it matters: Northern giant hornets,

The world’s largest hornet has been declared eradicated in the U.S. The invasive northern giant hornet is also known as the “murder hornet” for its dangerous sting and its ability to slaughter a honey bee hive in a matter of hours.

The “murder hornet” species has been eradicated in the U.S., according to the Department of Agriculture. The northern giant hornet, sometimes nicknamed the “murder hornet,” is the world’s largest hornet species,