Asian Hornet Brief Overview
The Asian Hornet, also known as the Yellow-legged Asian Hornet, is an invasive species posing a serious threat to honeybees and other insects in the UK. There have not been any confirmed sightings of Asian Hornets’ nests in Hampshire, in October or November 2023, beekeepers should be prepared for the Asian Hornets’ possible arrival.
This guide, prepared by Alan Baxter, HBA’s AH coordinator, provides essential information on monitoring and trapping Asian Hornets, emphasizing responsible practices to minimize harm to other species.
You can read a brief summary below, but we encourage you to download the full document and read this in detail.
Monitoring Trapping:
- Early Detection: Deploy monitoring traps throughout the year (February-November) to detect migrating queens or windblown individuals.
- Strategic Placement: Locate traps near flowering plants, water sources, and in sunny areas facing south or southeast.
- Simple & Selective: Use closed traps with 5.5mm entry holes to minimize bycatch of other insects. “Bottle” or “bell” traps are not recommended due to poor selectivity.
Spring Trapping of Queens Emerging from Hibernation:
- Target Areas: Only relevant in areas with confirmed nests from the previous year. In Hampshire, spring trapping is not advised.
- Timing: Deploy traps in February (when temperatures reach 12°C for 5 consecutive days) and remove them by May end.
- Targeted Grid: Place traps around the old nest or apiary at a density of 1-2 traps per hive within a 500m radius.
Kill Trapping:
- Last Resort: Use kill traps only within the apiary when hornets are actively attacking hives (indicated by “hawking” behaviour).
- Targeted Approach: Avoid attracting hornets by deploying traps only when necessary.
Autumn Queen Trapping:
- Uncertain Effectiveness: Catches newly-mated queens before hibernation, but its effectiveness and resource efficiency are debated.
- Limited Application: Consider areas with active nests, but prioritize other measures.
Bait Stations:
- Track & Trace: Primarily used for locating nests during active investigations, but can also be used for monitoring.
- Simple Design: Employ everyday items like cups with bait (e.g., beer) and attractant (e.g., fruit).
Additional Tips:
- Focus on Beekeeping Skills: Alongside trapping, prioritize strengthening your beekeeping practices to enhance bee health and resilience.
- Report Sightings: Immediately report any suspected Asian Hornet sightings to the authorities using the official channels.
Remember: Responsible trapping is crucial to minimize harm to other beneficial insects. By following these guidelines and staying informed, beekeepers can play a vital role in protecting their bees and the wider ecosystem from the Asian Hornet threat.
Further Resources:
- Hampshire Beekeepers’ Association
- French National Plan
- National Bee Unit – Asian Hornet Monitoring
- Special Briefing for Beekeepers Andrew Durham 2023 and 2024
Don’t hesitate to reach out for more information. Our members are here to help and advise.
