(AKA – Asian Hornet)
With the discovery over the last few years of a Yellow Legged hornet (Vespa velutina) and their nests in the UK it is important for beekeepers and the general public to be aware of what a Yellow Legged 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.
Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina)
The easiest way to differentiate the Yellow Legged hornet from the more common European hornet (Vespa carabro) is by looking at the abdomen. The Yellow Legged hornet’s 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 Yellow Legged Hornet Action Team leader Colin Lodge.
Also see the Yellow Legged Hornet Action Team website