Recently, many people have been hiking in suburban areas. However, a shocking incident occurred on the Bafenliao Trail in Ruifang District, New Taipei City. A 20-member hiking group was attacked by a swarm of over 100 hornets, resulting in multiple injuries and the unfortunate deaths of two individuals. Even the firefighters who arrived for the rescue were stung by hornets, adding to the distressing event.

📌 Myth Busted! Experts Reveal: Hornets Hate Black Clothing the Most

Traditional advice for avoiding hornet attacks often emphasizes "Avoid wearing perfume" or "Avoid bright-colored clothing". However, insect expert Chang Yung-jen warns that hornets are most agitated by black clothing as they can easily mistake dark objects for their natural enemy — the Oriental Honey Buzzard — prompting aggressive attacks.

Sharing his years of field experience photographing insects, Chang explained that whenever he approached a hornet nest, the hornets would consistently attack black cameras, tripods, and other dark equipment first, regardless of whether perfume was worn.

For this reason, hikers are strongly advised not to wear black clothing or black hats, and instead opt for light-colored clothing to reduce the risk of provoking hornets.Research Confirms: Vespa affinis (Lesser Banded Hornet) Prefers to Attack Black Clothing (Photo/Provided by Heho Health)

📌 Study Confirms: Lesser Banded Hornets Prefer Attacking Black

According to a 2021 study published in the British journal PeerJ, the Lesser Banded Hornet (Vespa velutina) is one of the most aggressive hornet species towards humans in autumn. Researchers tied objects in eight different colors (black, brown, yellow, green, orange, gray, red, and white) near hornet nests to observe their reactions.

🔸 Research Findings:

✅ Lesser Banded Hornets displayed the strongest defensive aggression towards black, followed by brown.
✅ Hornets respond more to color than texture; for example, smooth black objects are more likely to be attacked than rough green materials.
✅ Hornets tend to target hair-covered areas, as dark hair resembles predators, which is why hornets commonly attack the head.

📌 Essential Hiking Safety Tips to Prevent Hornet Attacks

🔺 ⚠️ Behaviors that May Attract Hornets:

🚫 Wearing black or dark brown clothing (opt for light-colored, smooth-textured clothing instead).
🚫 Wearing black hats (opt for white or light-colored hats).
🚫 Applying perfume, strongly scented lotion, or mosquito repellent outdoors.
🚫 Carrying black cameras, camcorders, or tripods near hornet nests.
🚫 Approaching, photographing, or attempting to disturb a hornet nest.

✅ Correct Response When Encountering Hornets:

✔ If you spot a hornet nest, keep your distance and avoid disturbing the swarm.
✔ If a hornet starts following you, lower your head and walk away quickly without waving your hands or swatting at the hornet to avoid provoking them.
✔ If stung, leave the area immediately and seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent allergic shock, which can be life-threatening.

📌 Expert Reminder: Choose Clothing Wisely and Seek Medical Help If Stung

Autumn is the peak season for hornet activity, especially when temperatures begin to cool. Hornets are more likely to swarm and attack during this period, so preventive measures are crucial.

Experts urge the public to wear light-colored clothing, avoid exposing dark hair, and remain vigilant for hornet nests while hiking, camping, or clearing weeds. If attacked, swiftly leave the area and seek medical attention immediately to ensure your safety.