Saving the small things that run the planetThe Asian ‘Yellow-legged’ Hornet (Vespa velutina) is a far eastern and south Asian species that was accidentally introduced into France from China around 2004. The hornet has since spread across many parts of Western Europe and can be found in 12 countries, including the UK.
This invasive non-native species is a voracious predator and poses a significant threat native insect species and honeybees. An average Asian Hornet nest can consume over 11kg of insects a year.
There are currently three species of hornet found in Europe, only one, The European Hornet (Vespa crabro) is native to Britian. The Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis), is found in southern and eastern parts of Europe. The Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina) was accidently introduced through the movement of goods. The Asian hornet is now thought to be established in Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Jersey.
The Asian Hornet can make their way to the UK by flying across the channel or by being transported on ferries, vehicles and via imported goods such as horticulture products. Between 2016 and 2022, there were 23 confirmed sightings in the UK, including 13 nests. In 2023, there were 72 nests found in 56 locations, which was more than the previous 6 years combined. The Asian Hornet has no natural predators in this region of the world, which enables them to establish populations in places like France and the UK. Without eradication efforts, Asian Hornets would continue to spread unchecked which would have serious consequences for our biodiversity, as has already been demonstrated in France.
The Asian Hornet is often confused with the Asian Giant Hornet, also known as the Mandarin Hornet or ‘Murder Hornet’, (Vespa mandarinia) in the media – this species has not been recorded in Europe and the two should not be confused. The Asian Hornet can be up to 3cm in length and is actually smaller than the European Hornet (Vespa crabro).
European Hornet (Native to GB)
Asian Hornet (Invasive Non-Native Species)
To help identify an Asian Hornet, a very helpful ID sheet and poster is available from the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat.
If you think you have seen an Asian Hornet, it’s important that you report your sighting via the Asian Hornet Watch app – available on app store for Android and iPhone.
Asian Hornets can become aggressive if their nest is disturbed and it’s recommended to keep a distance of at least 10 meters. A single hornet is unlikely to cause injury if left alone. The Asian Hornet’s sting is no more painful than that of any other UK species and the sting should subside after a few hours. However, extra care should be taken by those who are allergic to bee or wasp stings.
To help with eradication efforts, all sightings of Asian Hornet should be reported, complete with an image if possible. Please keep your distance and avoid disturbing any hornets or hornet nests you come across.
For more information, including how to identify Asian Hornets, please visit the National Bee Unit (NBU) Website.
You can report any sightings, or suspected sightings, via this webpage or via the Asian Hornet Watch app on Android or iPhone. The National Bee Unit (NBU) will follow up on reports and destroy their nests if a positive ID is made.
Join a community of invertebrate champions and access exclusive member benefits from just £3 a month, all whilst supporting our vital conservation work.
MembershipEvery contribution helps us to save the small things that run the planet by restoring vital habitats and rebuilding strong invertebrate populations in the UK.
Make a donation todayStay up to date with our work and help spread the word by following us on our socials and signing up to our monthly BugBytes email newsletter.
