ASIAN HORNET
While there have been no confirmed yellow-legged hornet sightings in Scotland, 2023 saw a significant increase of confirmed incursions in England, including as far north as Yorkshire.
It is possible for them to reach the south of England by flying or being blown over from France across the channel. The yellow-legged hornet however, is also a good hitchhiker that can travel through movement of vehicles, ships, and goods.
We are most likely to spot a yellow-legged hornet from August to October once their population is at its highest and they are openly foraging for protein sources, so be alert around trees and vegetation where they might nest, and at potential food sources such as beehives or mammal carcasses.
As the colony disbands, individuals are more attracted by sugar sources and can often be found feeding on fallen fruit, compost heaps, and ivy nectar as the season draws to a close.
“We cannot underestimate the devastating impact this non-native predator has on honey bees and other insects, including important pollinators, and I urge people to be aware of what to look for and report any potential sightings.”
Agriculture Minister, Jim Fairlie.
If you spot something that you think might be a yellow-legged hornet, please try to take a photo if safe to do so.
It is important to spot any incursion quickly to prevent them establishing – and that is where you come in. Whilst traps are available, the current risk of incursion into Scotland does not merit their use due to the risk of by catch and potential consequential damage to wild pollinators. We encourage focussing on targeted observations. This requires a bit more skill but can be just as successful as trapping and is more environmentally friendly.
To start, download the free Asian Hornet app – this has useful photos to help ID. Alternatively, check out the BeeBase Asian Hornet page before you start which has photos to hone your ID skills.
If you are a beekeeper, choose an observation site at the side of your colonies: somewhere you can see bees at the hive entrance, but not too close to attract attention. If you are a non-beekeeper carrying out observations, find a sunny spot at a flowering ivy or under an apple tree where there are plenty of active wasps and hoverflies.
Sit down, get comfortable, and watch the arrivals and departures for at least 20 minutes. Please be vigilant and encourage others to do the same. If you do see a suspected yellow-legged hornet, report it as quickly as possible.
For more information visit: www.nationalbeeunit.com and www.nonnativespecies.org.