About our Asian Hornets news
Latest news on Asian hornets in the UK, providing comprehensive coverage of sightings, nest destructions, DNA analysis, and the threat these invasive insects pose to honey bees and native pollinators.
Asian hornets, native to Southeast Asia, have become a growing concern in the UK since their first appearance in 2016. In 2022, a record 72 nests were found and destroyed across 56 locations, mainly in Kent. These hornets can consume up to 11kg of insects annually, with a single hornet capable of eating 50 bees per day, posing a severe threat to the UK's ecosystems.
Recent DNA analysis by the Animal and Plant Health Agency's National Bee Unit confirmed that Asian hornets survived a UK winter for the first time. Three queens trapped in Sussex last month were identified as offspring of a nest destroyed in Rye in November 2023. While not yet considered definitive proof of an established population, this finding emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and reporting of sightings.
The British Bee Keepers Association and local beekeeping organizations are working to locate and destroy nests before new queens emerge. The public can assist by reporting sightings via the Asian Hornet Watch app, which helps identify the slightly smaller hornet with its distinctive orange band at the base of the abdomen and striking yellow legs. Beekeepers and interested individuals can stay informed through the and .
With a significant presence in mainland Europe, including an estimated 500,000 nests in France, Asian hornets have the potential to severely impact the UK's honey bees, native pollinators, and overall biodiversity if they become permanently established. Although the hornets do not pose a major risk to human health, their effect on essential pollinator populations could be devastating.
Our dedicated Â鶹´«Ã½ feed on Asian hornets delivers the latest headlines, sightings, and expert insights from trusted sources, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of this invasive species and its potential impact on the UK. Stay informed about the latest developments in the efforts to monitor and control the spread of Asian hornets.