Asian Hornet Week 2022

What is Asian Hornet Week?

Asian Hornet Week in the UK, usually held in early September, aims to raise awareness of the invasive Vespa velutina (yellow-legged hornet).

These predators threaten native pollinators and biodiversity. Sightings should be reported via the Asian Hornet Watch app, with a PDF Identification Guide available.

Key Information regarding Asian Hornets in the UK:

• Identification: Smaller than native hornets, dark abdomen, orange face, and distinctive yellow "socks".

• Peak Time: Early September is prime time for sightings as colonies are at their largest.

• Reporting: Use the Asian Hornet Watch app (Android/iOS) or the online reporting form.

• Threat: They prey on honeybees, disrupting ecosystems and posing risks to apiaries.

• Activity: They are rapidly spreading, with significant sightings in Kent, Sussex, and other parts of the UK.

Why the Week Matters

The NNSS Asian Hornet Week initiative encourages the public to check beehives, flowers, and fruit for the insects to help the National Bee Unit find and destroy nests

The British Beekeeper’s Association is holding its 4th Asian Hornet Week this week to raise awareness as Autumn is typically when Asian hornet's nests are revealed as the leaves start to fall from the trees and bushes.

Asian Hornets are non-native and pose a risk to our honeybee population. They hand around their hives and pick them off as they emerge which is known as “hawking”.

Follow these 3 simple steps to tell if you’ve got an Asian Hornet:

• Step 1: Check its very black

• Step 2: Check for an orange stripe on the 4th segment of the abdomen

• Step 3: Check its legs – does it look like they’ve been dipped in yellow paint?

If you can answer yes to these questions, then you’ve likely got yourself an Asian Hornet!

You can also watch the Animal & Plant Health Agency’s short film on how to identify Asian Hornets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4DRki97wzg&t=5s

So, what should you do if you spot an Asian Hornet? The British Beekeeper’s Association urges all sightings to be reported so that experts can take action to eradicate them.

It is crucial you report any possible sightings of the Asian Hornet

You can also download the new free ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app from the Google Play Store or App Store for iPhone.

Learn about the Asian Hornet

The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a non-native species to the UK and is considered a major threat to native pollinators and honey bees. The Asian hornet was first sighted in the UK in 2016 and has since established populations in several regions.

If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet in the UK, it is important to report it to the authorities, as they are working to prevent the spread of this species.

Removing Asian hornet nests can be particularly challenging and dangerous, as the hornets are highly aggressive and their venom is more toxic than that of the European hornet. It is strongly recommended to hire a professional pest control service experienced in dealing with Asian hornets

Looking for Hornet Nest Removal near you?

Call PGM Pest Control to book an appointment to remove the hornets nest from your property , call 01981 540088 or email contact@pgmpestcontrol.co.uk

PGM serve all locations throughout Herefordshire and Worcestershire.