OLYMPIA, Wash. – It could be the end of an era for the so-called “murder hornet” here in Washington state.

The Department of Agriculture has not confirmed any new sightings of the northern giant hornet since 2021.

In order for a species to be considered eradicated in our region, no new sightings need to be reported for three years.

The invasive species was first found near Blaine in 2019.

The northern giant hornet mainly poses a threat to honeybee colonies but can attack with toxic venom if provoked by humans or other animals.

State officials are still asking people to submit potential sightings through their website.