Asian hornets: Be vigilant ahead of peak season

 

Asian Hornets: Be on the Lookout as Summer Buzzes In

The UK's beloved summer season is almost here, but with it comes the unwelcome rise of the Asian hornet. While these hornets aren't a greater danger to humans than our familiar wasps and hornets, they pose a significant threat to honey bees, vital insects for our ecosystem's health.

Why We Need Your Eyes Peeled

Early detection is crucial in controlling the spread of Asian hornets. Here's how you can be a part of the solution:

• Become an Asian Hornet Spotter: Learn to identify them! Asian hornets are a bit larger than native hornets, sporting a distinctive black body with a wide orange stripe on their fourth abdominal segment and bright yellow leg tips.
• Report, Report, Report!: If you believe you've spotted an Asian hornet, don't hesitate! Report the sighting immediately using the Asian Hornet Watch app or online reporting tools.
• Traps: Silent Sentinels (Optional): Early spring trapping helps locate queens before they establish nests. If you live in Kent, East Sussex, Devon, or North Yorkshire, keep an eye out for these traps. If you see a trapped insect that resembles an Asian hornet, report it to the authorities.

Together We Can Buzz Off the Threat

By reporting sightings quickly, you become a vital part of the effort to control Asian hornets. Your vigilance can help authorities take swift action to eradicate them and safeguard our precious bee populations.

Be Informed, Be Engaged!

Download the Asian Hornet Watch app to become a citizen scientist and join the fight! Let's work together to ensure a safe and prosperous summer for both humans and bees.

Heads Up! Asian Hornet Season on the Horizon

The UK's peak summer season is approaching, and with it comes the increased activity of Asian hornets. The good news is they aren't a bigger threat to people than our native wasps and hornets. However, they can be destructive to honey bees, crucial pollinators for our environment.

How You Can Help

The key to controlling Asian hornets is early detection. Here's how you can be vigilant:

• Know what to look for: Asian hornets are a bit larger than native hornets with a distinctive black body, a wide orange band on their fourth abdomen segment, and yellow leg tips.
• Report sightings: If you think you've spotted an Asian hornet, report it immediately through the Asian Hornet Watch app or online.
• Be a trap detective (optional): Early spring trapping helps locate queens before they establish nests. Keep an eye out for traps in your area (particularly in Kent, East Sussex, Devon and North Yorkshire) and report any trapped insects that look suspicious.

Remember: By reporting sightings promptly, you can help authorities take swift action to control the spread of Asian hornets and protect our bee populations.