It Could Bee a Stinger
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a native predatory wasp located in Asia. Due to its potential impact on Great Britain, sightings of the species are classified as an Alert Species and must be reported immediately to avoid establishing populations in GB.
Closeup on the Asian yellow-legged Hornet wasp, Vespa velutina, a recently introduced threat to honeybees
In September 2016, the National Bee Unit documented a groundbreaking discovery-their first sighting of Asian hornets in Great Britain. Since then (as of August 26th 2022), there have been 22 sightings confirmed and 12 nests identified that were ultimately destroyed.
If you encounter an Asian hornet, kindly refrain from approaching them or destroying their nests. Log all sightings immediately using the convenient Asian Hornet Watch app available on Android and iPhone devices, or report online.
What's the concern?
The Asian hornet may be a potential new invasive species, and it is of great concern due to its dietary preferences which include pollinators, spiders, small mammals-and even bee colonies. Already established in France and Belgium, if this invader has successfully established itself elsewhere it could have severe repercussions on our native bees as well as other ecosystems. It has been recognised that climate change will aid the propagation of many non-native species such as the Asian Hornet; already we are seeing drastic impacts in areas where they thrive.
As winters become milder, this will provide suitable environments for both current and potential invasive species to spread further north. Invasive species are known to possess broader environmental tolerances, making them more likely than native plants and animals to outlast the effects of climate change. Thus, climatic shifts could prove disastrous as they may create ideal breeding grounds for these invaders capable of overwhelming local ecosystems.
Asian hornets have a remarkable adaptation that allows them to keep their colonies at an even temperature of around 30°C-they use regurgitated water from their mandibles and vibrating wings for cooling. This capability enables the colony to remain active during extreme temperatures, allowing these insects to hunt regardless of climate conditions. It's imperative that more people become aware of Asian hornet sightings so we can identify and report them properly; this is why our Ecosystem Invaders campaign uses the Asian Hornet as its eye-catching character in order to raise public awareness regarding invasive species.
Why now?
In September (2022), the British Beekeepers Association and Animal and Plant Health Agency have jointly launched Asian Hornet Week from the 5th to 11th. Their aim? To spread awareness about these potentially harmful creatures.
But why promote this campaign now, when we've been surrounded by a myriad of bees, bumblebees, hornets and wasps all through springtime?
In the summer and early fall months, Asian hornets transition from a sugar-based diet to one rich in protein. As their dietary needs change, they can often be seen hovering near bee hives as they search for more sustenance to provide for the growing larvae within their nest. This behavior of 'hawking' at hive entrances is crucial for providing food during this precarious time of year.Once Asian hornets locate honeybee hives or apiaries, they are likely to return over and over until all resources have been consumed. These repeated visits known as 'hawking' ultimately has two major consequences;
Bee hives suffer 'foraging paralysis' when hovering hornets appear, resulting in a decrease of bee flight activity. Similarly, predation by these same pests lead to 'homing failure', preventing bees from returning home safely.
As leaves begin to crisp and fall away during the late Summer and early Autumn months, exposed Asian hornet nests become more visible. Reporting on these locations gives the National Bee Unit a better chance of finding any lurking Asian hornets before they produce new queens. This is our best hope for averting any further spread or damage from this species in our environment!
How do I know if I've seen one?
Knowing the distinct physical characteristics of an Asian hornet is key to being able to spot one quickly. This particular species has a completely black body, with exception of its fourth abdomen segment that prominently shows a wide orange stripe, as well as some thin yellow stripes throughout. Additionally, it's legs appear painted in shades of yellow and its face is brightly colored in shade of orange – so you can't miss them! Utilizing these features will make identifying Asian hornets much simpler for everyone.
Attempting to identify Asian hornets can be particularly difficult, with so many native species in Britain having a comparable appearance. Nevertheless, if you are under the impression that you spotted an Asian Hornet during nighttime hours, rest assured that this is impossible as they only fly around during daylight.
Here are 4 similar species:
European Hornet
Our local hornet species, the European hornet (Vespa crabro), is much bigger than its Asian counterpart. It boasts a striking yet subtle look with a brown body that's decorated in alternating yellow and black stripes located on its abdomen. From looking at it from the front, you'll notice that this insect has an all-yellow head whereas if seen from above, it will appear reddish in hue.
European hornet
Giant Horntail
The Giant Horntail (Urocerus gigas) is an awe-inspiring species of sawfly, noticeably slender and elongated when compared with the Asian Hornet. Its abdomen displays a striking yellow and black patterning, while its antennae and legs are both enveloped in bright yellow hues.
Giant Horntail
Hornet moth
The captivating hornet moth (Sesia apiformis) is an awe-inspiring species with clear wings akin to bees or hornets. As part of the hymenoptera group, this fascinating creature uses mimicry as a form of self-defence mechanism. It has distinctively outlined wings paired with its fuzzy body and minuscule eyes—no defined 'waist' in sight!
Hornet moth
Hornet mimic hoverfly
A remarkable insect is the Hornet mimic hoverfly (Volucella zonaria). These flies cleverly imitate the color of another species and have round, conspicuous eyes that can be seen from above. Additionally, their legs are black and antennae short yet stubby.
Hornet mimic hoverfly
Get involved!
Now that you can recognize an Asian hornet, it's time to get involved and report any potential sightings! Recording these observations is essential in preventing the formation of future colonies. Don't wait - take action now to help protect your community from this destructive species.
If you think you've identified an Asian Hornet or their nest, please resist the urge to approach, capture and destroy either. When possible, take a photo of it and make sure to note your location as well. Even if a photograph isn't attainable, submit details about what you saw on the GB NNSS website by filling out their online form or utilizing the Asian Hornet Watch app instead! The prevention of this Alert Species relies heavily upon citizens like yourself for reporting sightings - By doing so, not only are you protecting native species but also helping us keep our environment safe!
