Stay alert for the invasion of Asian hornets! Learn how to spot them and report sightings to protect pollinators.
The buzzing concern of Asian hornets is on the rise in the UK, posing a threat to honey bees and other insect pollinators. While their impact on human health is no greater than that of native wasps and hornets, the recent surge in sightings has sparked alarm among beekeepers. These invasive species, alongside the red Imported Fire Ant, Chinese Mitten Crab, and Chinese Mystery Snail, are gradually infiltrating Europe, raising concerns about ecological balance.
With a distinctive appearance not native to the UK, Asian hornets have been increasingly spotted, with a record number of sightings reported. These hornets, larger than native bees and wasps, present a unique challenge to beekeeping efforts. The Chief Plant Health Officer's warning urges vigilance and prompt reporting of any sightings, emphasizing the importance of protecting local ecosystems.
If you encounter an Asian hornet, whether at home or outdoors, it is crucial to take action to safeguard pollinators and prevent further spread. Despite posing a minimal health risk to humans, their impact on honey bees and pollinators cannot be understated. Reporting sightings promptly is key to preventing their proliferation and protecting the delicate balance of nature.
As sightings of Asian hornets surge to record highs, the public is called upon to play an active role in monitoring and reporting any encounters. The imminent threat of invasion highlights the need for heightened awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact on local ecosystems.
According to experts, the influx of Asian hornets in 2023 marked a turning point, with eight sightings reported already this year. As one of the most significant threats to pollinators, these invasive species require swift and decisive action to prevent further ecological disruption.
Asian hornets pose a risk to honey bees and insect pollinators, though the risk to human health is no greater than our native wasps and hornets. UK beekeepers ...
The red Imported Fire Ant, Chinese Mitten Crab and Chinese Mystery Snail are also making their way across Europe.
Although Asian hornets are not native to the UK, 2023 saw a record number of sightings and so far eight have been reported this year.
The UK's Chief Plant Health Officer has warned beekeepers over Asian hornets - which dwarf the bees and wasps you usually see. Nicola Spence is urging the ...
Asian hornets are a threat to pollinators like honey bees and this is what you should do if you see one, whether you're at home or out and about.
Asian hornets pose no greater risk to human health than native hornets but threaten honey bees and insect pollinators. The Environment Department (Defra) said ...
Britons have been warned to remain vigilant against an invasion of Asian hornets, as sightings of the pests reach record highs.
People are being warned to report sightings of Asian hornets as nature groups warn of a potential surge in non-native species in Suffolk.
Why is this winged invader seen as a threat and how you'll know if you've spotted one. | ITV National News.
Asian hornets are a threat to pollinators like honey bees and this is what you should do if you see one, whether you're at home or out and about.
This is how to spot an Asian hornet and what the difference is between UK native hornets, according to experts - see what they look like.
Brits are being told to remain “vigilant” this summer as UK sightings of Asian hornets reach record highs, but should you be afraid?
Nature groups have warned Asian hornet numbers are likely to increase this summer as the insect crosses the Channel and takes hold in the UK.
The National Bee Unit (NBU) aims to eradicate the Asian hornet in the UK, and this spring it rolled out trapping in areas where there was an “increased risk” ...
Asian hornets are a threat to pollinators like honey bees and this is what you should do if you see one, whether you're at home or out and about.
Nature groups are warning of a potential surge in damaging invasive non-native species. The UK's chief plant health officer Nicola Spence has called for ...
Asian hornets pose no greater risk to human health than native hornets, but are a threat to honey bees and insect pollinators. While the species is not ...
Although Asian hornets are not native to the UK, 2023 saw a record number of sightings and so far eight have been reported this year.
After dozens of nests of the invasive species were found in Kent the government has issued an alert to the public about how to spot them — and the risks ...
The hornets hide in sheltered spots including in caravans and larger vehicles and have the power to “wreak havoc” on drivers returning from abroad. Drivers ...
The buzz over a record number of reported sightings last year has prompted warnings this summer.
Asian hornet expert Alastair Christie says the lower numbers are a "positive" sign.
The apex predator can devastate native species, damage crops and even kill humans – and experts fear they could gain a permanent foothold.