Establishment and rapid spread of social wasps ( <scp>Hymenoptera: Vespinae</scp> ) in <scp>Greenland</scp>

Abstract Social wasps (Vespinae) are infamous for their ability to colonise new areas with human aid. Introductions of social wasps into novel areas have resulted in adverse ecological impacts on local communities. In Greenland, social wasps have been lacking from the native fauna. However, between 2016 and 2024 two species have been established—the Red wasp ( Vespula rufa ) and the Norwegian wasp ( Dolichovespula norwegica ). The detrimental effects of social wasp introductions in other parts of the world raise concern regarding their impact on the species‐poor ecosystems of Greenland. Here, we compile and present the current knowledge on the distribution of V. rufa and D. norwegica in Greenland. We show that V. rufa has been rapidly extending its northernmost boundary, starting from a latitude of roughly 61° in 2016 and reaching a latitude above 69° by 2021. Knowledge about the wasps' distributions and effects on native species will be key factors in understanding their overall impact on Greenland ecosystems. We therefore recommend increased monitoring of the introduced wasps, and any additional potential vespid introductions, through citizen science projects. This should further be coupled with dedicated studies on the effects of V. rufa D. norwegica on local ecosystems in Greenland.