Learning about Yellow Legged Hornets
Rebecca Teare from our local Asian Hornet Action Team (AHAT) came to Phoenix Farm on Sat 17th May to update & educate us on the situation with this new threat to UK pollinators.
Now on the mainland, these insects are an apex predator which can breed & spread very rapidly eating ALL insects unchecked as they have no natural predators.
We learned that their other name Yellow Legged Hornet is a more useful term as its a clue on how to identify them.
We all need to look out for this invasive species….. which, if unchecked could have a devastating effect on all UK pollinators. Worrying for beekeepers as these hornets especially like to predate honey bees as they live in large colonies.
They look like large wasps with yellow legs.
If you see one please try to record the sighting – pic or video & report to the local AHAT team on an easily downloadable app. European hornets are not a problem, look similar but don’t have yellow legs.
Stings can be lethal to people so please don’t approach the nests & use caution filming.
However, do not put up insect traps as they kill/trap indiscriminately. Just observe & report. Sightings should be sent with a photograph and location details to alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk
Many thanks to Rebecca & AHAT for the great (& unpaid) work they are doing.
- For more information visit: https://www.barrettineenv.co.uk/13/2155/what-is-an-asian-hornet-what-does-it-look-like-and-what-should-i-do-if-i-come-across-one
- Follow Rebecca Teare on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4u1eVWsjrK/
- Find your local Asian Hornet Action Team: https://www.bbka.org.uk/asian-hornet-teams