Authorities are urging vigilance across Britain following unusually early appearances of yellow-legged hornets – sometimes referred to as Asian hornets or *Vespa velutina* – initially detected on Jersey, in the Channel Islands.
The Animal and Plant Agency has designated these insects a “significant threat,” particularly to honey bees and other vital pollinators. A single Asian hornet can consume up to 50 bees daily. The United Nations Environment Programme underscores the importance of bees, describing them as our “greatest pollinators,” essential for biodiversity and ultimately, human survival.
Concerns extend beyond ecological impact to public health, as their stings, like those of bees, can trigger allergic reactions. While most reactions are mild, severe allergies can lead to anaphylaxis – a potentially life-threatening condition.
Identifying these hornets is crucial. They typically measure 25-30mm in length and possess distinctive yellow tips on their legs, along with a uniformly dark brown or black body and characteristic yellow banding on the fourth abdominal segment. Care should be taken to distinguish them from European hornets, giant wood wasps, or common wasps.
The British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) is calling for immediate reporting of any sightings of these hornets or their nests. They emphasize the importance of visual confirmation:
“Please include an image wherever possible, as written descriptions are much less effective. Without an image, sightings are much less likely to be followed up.”
The BBKA advocates for a proactive approach, using the slogan “See it, snap it, send it.” The “Asian Hornet Watch” app offers a streamlined reporting process:
- The app’s home screen allows users to compare species and submit sightings.
- Photos are essential for accurate identification.
- Date and location data are automatically populated; brief comments can be added.
- A safety reminder is included, emphasizing the importance of caution.
Reporting also contributes to potential investigations and nest destruction – a critical step in eradication efforts.
Alternatively, sightings can be reported through a form managed by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.
The unprecedented number of early sightings on Jersey has prompted concern. John De Carteret, a founding member of the Jersey Asian Hornet Group, noted: “The first queens were more than two weeks early this year. We’re obviously concerned.”
Jersey recorded 262 queen Asian hornets by April 11 – a staggering 1,090 percent increase compared to previous years.
“When we reach 266 queens, we will equal the total from 2024 – and that figure wasn’t reached until June 25,”
Carteret stated.
Kate Wilson, head of the National Bee Unit, acknowledged these early reports: “Thanks to increasing reports to the app and online, it is not unexpected that sightings may occur earlier in the year. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue to report any potential sightings to us.”
First detected in the UK in 2016, Asian hornet sightings were rare until 2022. However, last year saw a dramatic increase, with 73 nests destroyed, primarily during September. This year has already seen two confirmed sightings within the UK – one in January and another in March – each involving the capture of a single insect.
