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Here’s what you should know about Asian Hornets
Earlier this year, The National Bee Unit reported its first sighting of an Asian Hornet (Vespa Velutina) in the Kent area. The British Beekeepers Association has since encouraged all sightings of Asian Hornets to be reported, and for those working or spending time outdoors to be vigilant.
But what’s the big deal?
Asian Hornets are big bee botherers…
Asian Hornets are bad news for the already dwindling honeybee population within the UK. These predators pose a threat to our honeybee population, putting our precious pollinators at risk and unsettling the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
Here’s what goes down; they hover outside beehives, waiting for the hardworking bees to come and go on their missions before they strike. By relentlessly preying on them, they have the power to destroy bee populations, driving their numbers down and causing entire colonies to collapse. It's a serious threat to our buzzing friends and the crucial role they play in pollinating our plants!
And they’re not good news for people, either.
Like (questionably) harmless UK species, Asian hornets do not generally attack people unprovoked. Their sting also happens to be less potent than the average hornet, but whilst less dangerous in small doses, the Asian Hornet delivers a much larger hit per sting, making it a potentially deadly predator to those who are allergic.
How do I identify an Asian Hornet?
Asian Hornets are usually smaller than the European hornet, with yellow legs, a dark abdomen and a yellow band towards the rear. They are typically found near beehives as this is where they prey over the honeybee. You may also find them foraging in late flowering plants such as Ivy.
You can find out more information on how to identify hornets here.
And what happens if I spot one?
As if Asian Hornets weren’t bad enough, they are also able to fly faster than a human can run, so in the event that you spot an angry hornet it’s best to stop moving.
Assuming you’ve seen an Asian Hornet and you’re not in danger, you are encouraged to:
- Report via the ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app available to download from the Apple and Android app stores.
- Report sightings through the Biological Records Centre website.
Once reported, the Asian Hornet and any nests can be eradicated for the protection of the UK’s bees, pollinators and people at risk.
If you do find yourself in a situation where you have, or someone you are with has been stung by a hornet and believe you, or they, may be experiencing a serious allergic reaction, phone for an ambulance immediately.
Are pests a problem for your business or organisation?
Landscape Services is a qualified and experienced pest control provider, specialising in outdoor pest infestations such as burrowing insects, spiders, moths and vermin. All of our pest control technicians are qualified to RSPH Level II standard, and we have the knowledge and experience of a variety of techniques both physical and chemical, to resolve your pest control issue with minimal impact to wildlife and the environment. Check out our Pest Control page for more information.
