With the discovery over the last few years of an Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) and their nests in the UK it is important for beekeepers and the general public to be aware of what an Asian hornet looks like and to remain vigilant. The Asian Hornet Watch app is available for both Android and iOS and will help you identify and report sightings.

The easiest way to differentiate the Asian hornet from the more common European hornet (Vespa carabro) is by looking at the abdomen. The Asian Hornets abdomen is almost entirely dark except for the fourth segment which is yellow.

More information about identification, where to report sightings and other background information is available from the Nation Bee Unit website.

Sightings should be reported to Great British Non Native Species Secretariat and our Asian Hornet Action Team leader Colin Lodge.

Also see the Asian Hornet Action Team website