As beekeepers gear up for the approaching bee season, there's a looming threat that demands attention: the relentless spread of the Asian Hornet, Vespa velutina. This invasive alien species, known for its voracious appetite for insects, poses a significant risk to honeybee populations across Europe and potentially beyond. In this post, we'll delve into the latest research, alarming trends, and effective methods to safeguard hives against the Asian Hornet menace.
Research Overview:
The Asian Hornet's rapid expansion throughout Europe has set off alarms among beekeepers and wildlife experts alike. With nests housing thousands of individuals, these hornets prey on honeybees, wild bees, and wasps, disrupting ecosystems and honey production. Innovative techniques, including radio-tracking and collaborative projects, aim to curb the spread and mitigate the impact of this invasive species.
Sharp Rise in Asian Hornet Sightings in UK Causes Alarm
Recent data reveals a sharp increase in Asian hornet sightings across the UK, raising concerns about the potential devastation to native bee populations. The species, known for dismembering bees and decimating hives, poses a formidable challenge to beekeeping and ecological balance. Urgent eradication campaigns and innovative tracking methods underscore the gravity of the situation.
New Developments:
The Guardian Newspaper: Asian hornet may have become established in UK, sighting suggests
Recent sightings of Asian hornets in the UK, particularly an early March sighting, raise concerns about the potential establishment of the invasive species in the country. The implications for bee populations and agriculture are profound, highlighting the urgency of addressing this threat. (Read more)
British Bee Keeping Association: Asian Hornet Sightings and Incursion Map
The British Bee Keeping Association provides an overview of recent Asian hornet sightings, including sightings in April and credible reports from various regions. Stay updated on the latest developments to protect your hives effectively. (Explore more)
2024 Sightings:
- 22nd & 24th April: Two further Asian hornet queens have been found by the NBU in traps set as part of the spring trapping work being carried out. Both hornets were found in a single trap near Four Oaks, Kent. Both specimens have been sent to the lab at Fera Science Ltd. for official confirmation and analysis, and the NBU will continue to monitor the area.
- 13th April: A single hornet was caught in a trap near Four Oaks, Kent, approximately 3km from the nest found in 2023. The NBU will continue to monitor the area. Additionally, there was a credible report of a single Asian Hornet sighted on a ferry between St Malo and Portsmouth.
- 11th April: A credible report of a lone Asian Hornet was received in Folkestone, Kent.
- 8th April: Another credible report came in of a lone Asian Hornet sighted on a ferry midway between Calais and Dover.
- 20th & 21st March: The National Bee Unit received credible reports of lone Asian hornets. The first was in Preston, Lancashire, at a warehouse with regular trucks arriving from France. A bee inspector attended, set traps, and is monitoring the location with support from the local beekeeper. The second credible report was a dead Asian hornet found in Romford, East London. The specimen was collected by an NBU inspector and sent to the lab at Fera Science Ltd. for official confirmation.
- 11th March: Confirmation of an Asian Hornet was found in a potting shed in Ash, Kent. The finding was around 5 miles from a nest found and destroyed in 2023 near Canterbury, Kent. (More Information)
- 19th January: A credible sighting was reported in Westfield, East Sussex. (More information)
Methods to Control Asian Hornets:
- Be Vigilant: Heightened awareness is key to early detection. Keep a lookout for unfamiliar large, dark-colored flying insects, particularly around beehives or specific plant species native to Asia.
- Identification: Educating the public on accurate identification and reporting procedures empowers communities to combat the spread of invasive species effectively. Knowing the distinct features of Asian hornets, such as their orange faces and yellow-tipped legs, is crucial for prompt action. For details on the appearance of an Asian hornet please can be found on Bee Base guide or the non-native species identification guide.
- Reporting: The ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app is available to download from the Apple and Android app stores. Members of the public can also report sightings by email to alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk with a photo or on the Non-native.
- Nest Removal: Employing insecticide dust, such as Ficam D, applied with precision using tools like Dustic Duster or Birchmeier DR5 offers a targeted approach to eliminate Asian hornet colonies. Timely intervention can prevent devastating attacks on bee colonies.
- Wasp Traps: Deploying specially designed Asian Hornet traps, that release bycatch of native insects, with potent attractants such as Trappit Wasp Bait Lure with bee deterrent, can help intercept and control Asian hornet populations, safeguarding bee hives and surrounding environments.
Conclusion:
As the specter of Asian hornet infestation looms large, proactive measures and collaborative efforts are essential to protect bee populations and preserve biodiversity. By staying vigilant, fostering awareness, and deploying effective control methods, beekeepers can fortify their hives against the relentless onslaught of invasive species.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Together, we can safeguard our bees and their vital role in sustaining ecosystems worldwide.
References:
- Kennedy PJ, Ford SM, Poidatz J, Thiéry D, Osborne JL. (2018). Identifying Asian hornet vespa velutina nests in the UK: The role of radio‐tracking. Ecology and Evolution. DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4221
- The Guardian. (2023). "Sharp rise in Asian hornet sightings in UK causes alarm."