Asian Hornets: What You Need to Know and How to Report Them
17 May 2026
Asian hornet are an invasive threat to UK bees and pollinators. Click to learn how to identify them and report sightings safely.
The Asian hornet (also known as Vespa velutina) is an invasive species that has been spreading across parts of Europe and has now been spotted in the UK. Unlike native hornets, Asian hornets are smaller, darker, and have distinctive yellow legs and an orange band on their abdomen.
These hornets are a significant threat to honeybees and other pollinators. A single Asian hornet can capture dozens of bees in a day, and entire hives can be destroyed if a nest becomes established nearby. This has serious consequences not only for beekeepers but also for agriculture and the wider environment.
Asian hornets are not generally aggressive towards humans, but they can become defensive if their nest is disturbed. Nests are often found in trees, hedges, or even on buildings, and can grow quite large over the season.
If you believe you have seen an Asian hornet, it’s important not to approach it. Instead, report the sighting through the official UK reporting system. Early detection is key to preventing them from spreading further.
? You can report sightings directly via the Asian Hornet Watch app or visit the official UK government page here:
https://www.nonnativespecies.org/asianhornet/
These hornets are a significant threat to honeybees and other pollinators. A single Asian hornet can capture dozens of bees in a day, and entire hives can be destroyed if a nest becomes established nearby. This has serious consequences not only for beekeepers but also for agriculture and the wider environment.
Asian hornets are not generally aggressive towards humans, but they can become defensive if their nest is disturbed. Nests are often found in trees, hedges, or even on buildings, and can grow quite large over the season.
If you believe you have seen an Asian hornet, it’s important not to approach it. Instead, report the sighting through the official UK reporting system. Early detection is key to preventing them from spreading further.
? You can report sightings directly via the Asian Hornet Watch app or visit the official UK government page here:
https://www.nonnativespecies.org/asianhornet/