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Asian Hornets
How do you identify
Asian hornets?
If you suspect an Asian hornet sighting,
Contact us immediately
Introduction
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive species that poses a threat to UK biodiversity, particularly to honeybees and other pollinators. Native to Asia, it was first spotted in France in 2004 and has since spread to various parts of Europe, including the UK.
Identification
Asian hornets are slightly smaller than the native European hornet. They have a distinctive velvety black thorax and a yellow or orange band on the fourth segment of their abdomen. The legs are brown with yellow ends.
Asian Hornet
Vespa velutina
European Hornet
Vespa crabro
Impact
Asian hornets are known to be voracious predators of honeybees and other beneficial insects. Their presence can lead to a significant decline in pollinator populations, which can have far-reaching effects on the environment and agriculture.
Peter Higgs talks to iTV about the threat of Asian Hornets, and other threats to the bee populations in the UK. See more here
Report an Asian Hornet sighting
If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet, it is important to report it to the relevant authorities. You can do this through the UK Government’s Non-native Species Secretariat (NNSS) website or by filling out this form here, or by using the Asian Hornet Watch app.
Report an Asian Hornet sighting
If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet, it is important to report it to the relevant authorities. You can do this through the UK Government’s Non-native Species Secretariat (NNSS) website or by filling out this form here, or by using the Asian Hornet Watch app.