‘Look out’ warning after killer Asian hornets sting ten people in UK
An urgent warning has been issued over killer Asian hornets in Britain after the insects were spotted in a seaside town[1]. Asian hornets have been spotted in Plymouth – fresh from stinging as many as ten people in the Channel Islands.
Defra’s Chief Plant and Bee Health Officer Nicola Spence said: “By ensuring we are alerted to possible sightings as early as possible, we can take swift and effective action to stamp out the threat posed by Asian hornets. That’s why we are working at speed to locate and investigate any nests.
“While the Asian hornet poses no greater risk[2] to human health than other wasps or hornets, they can cause damage to honey bee colonies and other beneficial insects. Please continue to look out for any Asian hornets and if you think you’ve spotted one, report your sighting through the Asian hornet app or online.
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“Asian hornet nests will be smaller at this time in the year but we are still asking people to be vigilant.” Ashgrove Farm, in Tavistock, posted: “If you have bees in Plymouth, please check your hives. If you have a garden, land, hedgerows, outbuildings, trees, caravans, trailers, or sheltered storage, please check for nests.
“The Asian Hornet can wipe out a colony of bees, in a matter of hours, as they feed on the live bees and pupae inside the hive. If you have recently returned from a holiday, via the ferry, please check under your trailers and caravans for nests. Please also check for nests when out walking your dog, or while looking up in the trees in parks and woodland areas.
“If you own a boat which is moored in the Tamar, or has been recently craned out, please check it for nests. Do not try to destroy any nest, but notify Plymouth Branch – Devon Beekeepers’ Association on Facebook, or @plymouthbeekeepers on Instagram. You can also message us direct, or post pictures of any suspected sightings here. A sting from an Asian Hornet is a lot worse than a sting from a wasp or bee, so do not put yourself in harm, or take any risks.
“They will not sting you, unless provoked, so do not worry or panic.”
References
- ^ were spotted in a seaside town (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
- ^ “While the Asian hornet poses no greater risk (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
- ^ Is the Government doing enough to help with the cost of living crisis? (xd.wayin.com)