Chief Plant Health Officer urges increased Asian hornet vigilance

On Monday 20 May, Professor Nicola Spence, who is in charge of plant health for the UK, asked that beekeepers and the public keep a sharp lookout for Asian hornets and let authorities know immediately should they see one. This request is particularly important now as we are entering the hottest months of the year.

The size of the Asian hornet is smaller compared to the hornets that are native in our area. It doesn't have a higher threat to human health similar to the native wasps and hornets we have. Nevertheless, it is a potential hazard to the honey bees and insects that help in pollinating.

The Asian hornets possess unique features that set them apart, such as a deep-hued body, a broad orange stripe on the fourth section of their abdomen and yellow tips on their legs. If you spot any of these insects, you can report it using the Asian Hornet Watch Application.

The cautionary message arrives following a heightened discovery of Asian hornets in the United Kingdom during 2023. The National Bee Unit of the Animal and Plant Health Agency went to every reputable report and was able to locate and exterminate a total of 72 nests in 56 different locations. Kent had the largest concentration of these nests. The National Bee Unit remains prepared to promptly and proficiently react to any additional credible sightings.

The UK's National Bee Unit has been making efforts to get rid of the Asian hornet and has been implementing traps in potential locations where the insect's queens may have survived over the winter. The traps have been set up in several places in Kent, East Sussex, Devon and North Yorkshire and have been designed in a way that doesn't harm other creatures.

The UK is currently free from Asian hornets. Catching them early is crucial to monitoring this species and crucial for our efforts to get rid of them.

"Professor Nicola Spence On Plant And Bee Health"

If people notify us of any potential sightings as soon as possible, we can quickly and efficiently deal with the danger of Asian hornets. This helps prevent any harm they may cause.

Although the Asian hornet does not present a higher threat to human well-being compared to other hornets or wasps, they can inflict harm on honey bee groups and other pollinating insects.

Please keep an eye out for any Asian hornets and if you see one, make sure to report it using either the online platform or the app specifically made for Asian hornet sightings.

If you think you may have come across an Asian hornet, it is recommended to submit a report through the 'Asian Hornet Watch' app on your iPhone or Android device, or fill out our online report form. Another option is to send an email to [email protected]. It would be helpful to include a picture if it is safe to obtain one.

You can access identification guides and additional details. As a beekeeper, it's important to stay informed about the most current developments through the gov.uk sightings page and BeeBase.

It's essential to be cautious not to intrude or disrupt a nest. Normally, Asian hornets aren't hostile to humans, but they may become aggressive when they sense danger to their nest.

This declaration comes at the same time as the commencement of the Chelsea Flower Show, during which Defra is organizing a stimulating display showcasing the prevalence of the Asian hornet and the danger it poses to our honey bees and native pollinators. The objective is to educate gardeners and the sector about the Asian hornet and increase awareness.