News Blast—Asian hornets

There is nothing worse than when you are outside enjoying the sunshine with family and friends to have that ruined by a hornet/wasp wanting to join in the party! You will find below some tips to help you avoid these unwanted visitors, but more importantly a specific species of hornet, Asian hornets, which could potentially cause some issues.

What to look out for-

Asian hornets are considered an invasive species in the UK. As we enter August, Asian hornets are at their peak for activity. With the warm months preceding and more to follow, it is important to keep an eye out!

Asian hornets were first sighted in the UK in 2016. Although these sightings may be few and far between, these hornets pose a huge threat to our native honey bees and pollinators.

But do not fear, they are no more of a threat to humans than our native hornets/bees/wasps. However due to being highly effective predators they have the potential to cause great losses to bee colonies should they increase their population.

They are most threatening in the summer, as this is when new queens have emerged and have begun to create a nest. This is prime time for our native pollinators to be under attack as they are preyed upon when attempting to enter their own hives.In the Autumn months, Asian hornets focus mostly on nest expansion and the production of new queens.

What does an Asian hornet look like?

-Typically small than native UK hornets

-They have black/brown bodies with one yellow ring near the tail end

-They have yellow legs as opposed to black

-They have an orange face

What action can you take to avoid them?

Like other stinging insects, they are attracted to food and drink so it is good practice to clean up any spillages in the kitchen and remove any food off counter tops. Ensure rubbish bin lids are secure and away from doorways and windows. In the early summer months they are particularly attracted to ‘sweetness’, so perfume and aftershaves can attract them too.

If you happen to come across a nest, please do not try and remove this yourself. Please phone us for professional advice and services.

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