The latest updates on Asian hornet sightings in the UK in 2018
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a species of hornet which is not native to the UK. It is smaller than our native hornet and poses no greater risk to human health than other hornets or bees.
However, they do pose a risk to honey bees and pollinating insects. This is why we are keen to stop this insect establishing in the UK, and why you should report suspected sightings.
When a sighting is confirmed, experts from the National Bee Unit (NBU) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) will work quickly to find and destroy any active nests in the area.
Current situation
No Asian hornets have been seen in the UK since 14 October 2018.
The risk of an active Asian hornet nest being found in the UK is negligible during the colder winter months. A risk remains of accidentally transporting an Asian hornet when returning to the UK from abroad.
To date, there have been 13 confirmed sightings of the Asian hornet in England and six nests have been destroyed.
Nine of these sightings occurred in 2018; an individual hornet in Lancashire (April) and Hull, three in Cornwall, two in Hampshire, one in Surrey (all September) and the latest in Kent (October).
It is crucial you report any possible sightings so our experts can take quick and effective action to eradicate Asian hornets.
Nicola Spence, Chief Plant Health Officer, said:
By ensuring we are alerted to possible sightings as early as possible, we can take swift and effective action to stamp out the threat posed by Asian hornets.
While the Asian hornet poses no greater risk to human health than a bee, we recognise the damage they can cause to honey bee colonies and other beneficial insects.
Please continue to look out for any Asian hornets and if you think you've spotted one, report your sighting through the Asian hornet app or online.
How to spot an Asian hornet
Asian hornets:
- have a dark brown or black velvety body
- have a yellow or orange band on fourth segment of abdomen
- have yellow tipped legs
- are smaller than the native European hornet
- are not active at night
Guidance on how to identify an Asian hornet.
How to report an Asian hornet
If you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet you should report this using the 'Asian Hornet Watch' app:
You can also report sightings by
