Embedded Files
What is this insect, and why should we be bothered?
What is this insect, and why should we be bothered?
The Yellow-legged "Asian" Hornet is a non-native invasive species that preys on a wide range of pollinators, including honey bees
Native to Asia
First seen in France in 2004, thought to have arrived in a container of pottery from China
Now present across most of Europe
UK is facing an increasing threat from this invasive species
Preys on a wide range of insects, including honey bees
One nest of Yellow-legged Asian hornets can consume 100,000 pollinators in one year.
That is 11KG of pollinators per year - 11KG is the weight of the average car tyre
We need your help...
We need your help...
In 2023 they arrived in numbers in Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, and this year in London & Dorset, and will spread unless we destroy their nests
If you see one:
If you see one:
REPORT IT
REPORT IT
For identification and reporting methods read on below
Yellow-legged Asian hornets can be extremely aggressive if they feel they are being threatened. Stings are painful and can cause an allergic reaction and anaphylaxis in some people.
Do not approach or disturb a nest.
Serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): Anaphylactic shock is a serious condition and urgent medical assistance should be sought. Symptoms and how to deal with anaphylaxis are on the NHS website.
Identification
Identification
Dark abdomen with wide orange stripe on 4th segment
Yellow tips to legs
Head black with orange face
Thorax black & velvety
Similar Insects - The Good Guys
These insects are native to the UK and are beneficial to the environment and biodiversity.
These insects are native to the UK and are beneficial to the environment and biodiversity.
Not everyone will agree that hornets & wasps are beneficial, but trust me, they really are!
Native European Hornet
Native European Hornet
Larger in size
Yellow & brown
Brown legs
Yellow headband
Giant Wood Wasp
Wasp
Hornet Mimic Hoverfly
How to Report Sightings
How to Report Sightings
If you think you have seen a Yellow-legged Asian hornet or a nest, please report it immediately:
If you think you have seen a Yellow-legged Asian hornet or a nest, please report it immediately:
- Take a photo if it is safe to do so
- Report via the Asian Hornet Watch app or email - the links for these are below
The best way to report sightings is via:
The Asian Hornet Watch app
The Asian Hornet Watch app
Alternatively email
Alternatively email
Share this with your friends, family, and neighbours. Only together can we beat this invasive insect.
Our pollinators are already under threat from insecticides and pesticides. The loss of our pollinators to the Yellow-legged "Asian" hornet will be devastating to our crops, flowers, and ecosystem.
See it! Snap it! Send it!
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse