"Murder hornets" given new name by scientists in Washington state

The invasive hornet found in Washington state that has been referred to as the Asian giant hornet or "murder hornet" has a new name.

Washington state Department of Agriculture officials said Monday that the Entomological Society of America (ESA) has adopted "northern giant hornet" for the species Vespa mandarinia in its Common Names of Insects and Related Organisms List.

The hornets can grow to more than two inches long and are known for decimating honeybee hives and delivering painful stings to humans.