The government has issued a warning to the public, including beekeepers, to exercise increased caution against Asian hornets this summer.

The UK’s Chief Plant Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spence, issued an alert today (20 May), urging all citizens to report any sightings immediately.

While Asian hornets pose no greater threat to humans than our native wasps and hornets, they are a danger to honey bees and pollinating insects. It has been reported that a single Asian hornet can seek out and consume up to 50 honey bees in a day.

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Asian hornets have not yet established themselves in the UK, so setting traps early is key to monitoring these invasive insects and crucial to their eradication.

How to recognize an Asian hornet:

As Wales Online reports, Asian hornets are easily identified by their dark bodies, a broad orange stripe in the fourth section of their abdomen, and yellow tips on their legs.

Identification guides and further information are available and if you keep bees you should keep up to date with the current situation on the gov.uk sightings page and on BeeBase.

What should you do if you spot one?

If you come across an Asian hornet or its nest, it is important to report it immediately. Reporting all sightings will allow experts to quickly and effectively manage the situation and eliminate the Asian hornets.

Although Asian hornets do not normally pose a threat to humans, they can become aggressive if they believe their nest is under threat. It is best to avoid nests or disturb them.

How is the report made?

If you think you have encountered an Asian Hornet, you can report it using the Asian Hornet Watch app, available for both iPhone and Android devices, or via our online reporting form. Alternatively, you can email [email protected]. If it is safe to do so, it would be helpful to attach a photo.

Nicola Spence said: “By alerting us to possible sightings as early as possible, the public can help us act quickly and effectively to eradicate the threat posed by the Asian hornet. Although the Asian hornet poses no greater risk to human health than other wasps or hornets, it can damage honey bee colonies and harm other pollinators.

“Please continue to be on the lookout for Asian hornets and if you think you have spotted one, report your sighting using the Asian Hornet app or online.”