Asian Hornet
Asian Hornet
The non-native Asian predatory wasp, Vespa velutina (also known as the Asian hornet), is an invasive species from Asia. In September 2016, the National Bee Unit confirmed a sighting of the Asian hornet in the Tetbury area of Gloucestershire – this is the first time the hornet had been discovered in the UK. Since then, further UK sightings continue to be made.
What’s the problem? Preying on insects, including honeybees and other pollinators, it is a significant threat to bee colonies and other native species in the UK. They are most likely to be seen near beehives, preying on bees defending the hive.
How did they get here? Asian hornets were inadvertently brought to France in 2004, most likely in a shipment of goods imported from East Asia. Since arriving in France the species has spread rapidly. It is now present across France and is moving into adjoining countries. The hornet can be accidentally imported through goods such as timber, soil, fruit, potted plants, cut flowers and is most likely to found in the southern parts of England as it cannot survive the colder climates in the north of the UK. Its active months are between April and November, though they’re most active in August/September.
How to identify an Asian Hornet
- Smaller than native hornets, with queens up to 30mm and workers up to 25mm in length
- Orange head (from front)
- Abdomen almost entirely dark, with fine yellow stripes and a yellow or orange 4th segment near the base
- Black or brown thorax
- Legs with bright yellow tips
Beekeepers cannot remove Asian Hornets, but we can assist with identification. See the BBKA Asian Hornet Team Map for details of your local team.
The UK Government have robust strategies in place to respond to any reports of Asian hornets in the UK. However, the Government can only enact these strategies once Asian hornets have been reported to them. If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet you should report this using the following methods:
The iPhone and Android app “Asian Hornet Watch”
the online form Asian Hornet Online Form
or by emailing alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk