ASIAN HORNETS

The Threat - The Asian hornet is a non-native species in the UK, as it hails from east Asia and could not arrive in the UK naturally.

The concern around the Asian hornet is that it is a significant predator of bees.

In France, it has consumed large numbers of bees, including the well-known European honey bee and many lesser-known solitary and colonial bee species. Nature conservation organisations, including the RSPB, are concerned about the impacts of Asian hornets on bees, as these pollinating species are an essential component of well-functioning ecosystems.

The Asian hornet is undoubtedly an invasive non-native species in France, and the evidence indicates it would be invasive in the UK too. It has been recorded in the UK on at least three occasions (as of January 2018). However, the relevant authorities swiftly eradicated these individuals.

How you can help:

The Governments of the UK have robust strategies in place to respond to any reports of Asian hornets in the UK. However, the Governments can only enact these strategies once Asian hornets have been reported to them.

Consequently, the RSPB urges everyone to be vigilant for Asian hornets and to report any suspected sightings to the relevant authorities.

Full details of how to ID Asian hornets and who to report them to can be found here