Asian Hornet Awareness:
Protecting Our Pollinators
The Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina), also known as the Yellow-Legged Hornet, is a non-native invasive species that poses a growing threat to the UK’s pollinators.
First recorded in Europe in 2004, it has since spread rapidly, and in recent years there have been increasing sightings here in the UK.
Why It’s a Concern
Asian Hornets are voracious predators of honeybees and other pollinating insects. A single nest can decimate local bee populations, putting biodiversity at risk. Research suggests that around 60% of newly planted trees fail without proper aftercare, and pollinators are a vital part of this cycle, supporting the growth of healthy ecosystems.
Losing pollinators affects:
Honeybee colonies vital for food production.
Wildlife that depends on pollinated plants.
Local environments and gardens where biodiversity is already under pressure.
Identifying the Asian Hornet
Key features include:
Dark brown/black body with a distinctive yellow band on the 4th segment of the abdomen.
Yellow legs (hence “yellow-legged hornet”).
Smaller than the European hornet, usually around 2.5 cm in length.
They are often spotted around flowers, where they hunt pollinating insects, or near beehives.
What To Do If You Spot One
If you think you’ve seen an Asian Hornet:
Do not disturb it or its nest these insects can be aggressive when threatened.
Take a clear photo if safe to do so.
Report the sighting using the free Asian Hornet Watch app (available on iOS and Android), or through the official UK government reporting page.
Early reporting is essential to stop the spread and prevent this invasive species from establishing in the UK.
Why Awareness Matters
The Asian Hornet is not just another insect, it is a real risk to pollinators and, by extension, to the health of our green spaces and food systems.
By learning how to identify them and reporting any sightings quickly, we can all play a role in protecting pollinators and supporting biodiversity.
🌳 Healthy trees and thriving pollinators go hand in hand.
