Radioactive Wasp Nests Found at Savannah River Site

Four radioactive wasp nests were discovered in early July at the Savannah River Site in South Carolina, a former nuclear weapons facility, with the first nest found near a nuclear waste tank exhibiting radiation levels ten times above federal limits. Officials state the nests pose no risk to the public or environment and confirm that all contaminated nests were safely removed, with no wasps or further ground contamination detected nearby. However, scientists warn that the findings suggest radioactive contaminants may be more widely dispersed, with wasps possibly serving as unintended bioindicators. The discovery has renewed calls for comprehensive site assessments and cleanup, particularly amid discussion of resuming nuclear material production at the facility. Previous wildlife contamination incidents, such as radioactive bird droppings, heighten concerns about the site's long-term containment strategies. The Department of Energy maintains there is no immediate danger but faces ongoing scrutiny from scientists and environmental groups.