ASIAN HORNET

 

 

Asian hornets  (Vespa Velutina) are a predatory species that can pose a significant threat to honeybees and other pollinators. Originally from Asia, they have spread to other parts of the world, including Europe, where they are now considered an invasive species. In the UK, Asian hornets were first identified in 2016, and there is concern that they could have a detrimental impact on local bee populations.

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Asian hornets are known to prey on honeybees and other insects. They are particularly attracted to honeybee colonies and will hover around the entrance of hives, waiting for bees to emerge. Once a bee has been caught, the hornet will crush it and remove the head and thorax to take back to their own colony as food for their young. This behaviour can result in the depletion of a honeybee colony, as well as stress and disruption for the remaining bees.

 

Beekeepers can take steps to prevent the hornets from gaining access to the colony. One effective method is to install a hornet trap near the hive entrance. These traps are designed to attract and trap the hornets, allowing beekeepers to remove them from the area. It is also important for beekeepers to monitor their hives regularly and report any signs of Asian hornets to the relevant authorities.

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Preventing Asian hornets from gaining a foothold in the UK is a key part of protecting local bee populations. The government and other organizations are working to monitor and control the spread of the species. Members of the public are encouraged to report any sightings of Asian hornets to the relevant authorities, who will investigate and take appropriate action.

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In addition to reporting sightings, there are several steps that individuals can take to help prevent the spread of Asian hornets. These include:

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• Checking any imported goods, such as plants or vehicles, for signs of Asian hornets before they are brought into the country

• Removing any fruit that has fallen to the ground in gardens, as this can attract Asian hornets

• Ensuring that any outdoor bins or containers are tightly sealed, as Asian hornets are attracted to sweet smells and can be found in rubbish

• Avoiding disturbing any nests or hives that are suspected to be infested with Asian hornets. Instead, contact the relevant authorities for advice on how to proceed.

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Asian hornets pose a significant threat to honeybees in the UK, and it is important for beekeepers and members of the public to take steps to prevent their spread. While there is no known cure for an infestation, monitoring and reporting sightings of the species, installing hornet traps, and taking steps to prevent their entry into the country can all help to protect local bee populations.

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It is important to report a sighting of an Asian hornet.

 

In the UK, sightings can be reported to the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS) via their website or by email at alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk.

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It is important to report sightings so that action can be taken to prevent the spread of Asian hornets and protect honeybee populations. Rapid response and early detection are crucial in controlling the spread of invasive species.

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The Asian hornet is a non-native invasive species that was accidentally introduced to France from China in 2004. Since then, it has rapidly spread across Europe and was first recorded in the UK in 2016.

 

Here is some information on the Asian hornet in the UK during the four seasons:

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Spring

In the spring, Asian hornet queens emerge from hibernation and begin to build their nests. They start by building small nests in trees, bushes, or on buildings, and as the colony grows, they may move to larger nests. Early in the spring, it can be difficult to spot an Asian hornet nest, as they are small and well-hidden.

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Summer

In the summer, the Asian hornet colonies grow rapidly. The hornets feed on nectar and sweet fruit, as well as honeybees and other insects. They are particularly attracted to honeybees and can pose a significant threat to bee colonies. In the summer, it is easier to spot Asian hornet nests, as they are larger and more visible.

 

Autumn

In the autumn, the Asian hornet colonies begin to decline. The queen stops laying eggs, and the workers start to die off. As the weather gets cooler, the hornets become less active and are more likely to be found in their nests.

 

Winter

In the winter, the Asian hornet colonies die off completely. The new queens that were produced in the previous season hibernate in protected locations, such as hollow trees or buildings. They emerge in the spring to start new colonies.

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It is important to note that Asian hornets are a threat to honeybees and other pollinators, and their presence in the UK should be reported. If you spot an Asian hornet or suspect that you have seen one, you should report it to the Non-Native Species Secretariat or to your local beekeeping association.