Brits are being asked to keep an eye out for Asian hornets this summer, with a special bee-keeping unit on call to swiftly destroy any reported nests. With a record number of sightings last year, beekeepers and the public are being urged to stay alert for these invasive insects.
Asian hornets are no more harmful to humans than native hornets, but their presence could spell disaster for Britain’s honey bees and insect pollinators. Early detection is key to keeping them at bay, with the Environment Department (Defra) encouraging the public to report any sightings of the menacing Asian Hornet through the dedicated Asian Hornet Watch App.
These hornets are identifiable by their dark bodies, distinctive wide orange stripe on the fourth abdomen section, and yellow tips on their legs. The National Bee Unit is on high alert, having swiftly dealt with every credible report last year, destroying 72 nests across 56 locations, predominantly in Kent.
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The call to action comes amid concerns from the Wildlife and Countryside Link (WCL), representing a coalition of 83 nature groups, about the rise in invasive species due to recent floods and warmer weather. These conditions are perfect for unwelcome invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed, which wreaks havoc on buildings; Giant Hogweed, with its skin-burning sap; and Himalayan Balsam, which can increase flood risks by overpowering local flora, reports Wales Online.
But these aren’t the only species causing concern. The WCL warns of new threats making their way across Europe, such as the Red Imported Fire Ant, Chinese Mitten Crab, and Chinese Mystery Snail. Richard Benwell, CEO of the WCL, emphasises the seriousness of the situation: “Invasive species are already one of the biggest threats to the UK environment, from smothering waterways to outcompeting native species.
“They also cause billions of pounds in damage a year to homes and businesses, and even pose risks to human health. The River Trust, Plantlife and Buglife are among the groups in the coalition, which is calling for Government action to mark Invasive Non-native Species Week from Monday.”
Mr Benwell continued; “Investment in a fully-funded inspectorate and a strong invasive species strategy could make a contribution to halting nature’s decline and creating a more resilient economy.” Dr Rob Collins, director of Policy and Science at The Rivers Trust, said the weather conditions over winter have left its local trusts “struggling to keep a wave of invasive species at bay” as wet weather strains their efforts.
“The Government must properly support local conservation groups nationwide who are working tirelessly to stop our waterways being smothered by nature invaders,” he said. The coalition is making calls for the annual invasive species biosecurity budget to triple to £3 million with a further £3 million to fund a permanent dedicated invasive species Inspectorate.
The coalition also wants long-term Government funding for Local Action Groups (LAGs) to create a biosecurity “citizens army”, as recommended by the Environmental Audit Committee. The coalition is also hoping to reform the process of listing “GB Invasive Species of Special Concern” and proactively manage the listed species that are already widespread and causing harm.
In response to recommendations from the WCL, a Defra spokesperson stated: “Invasive species threaten our native biodiversity and cost the economy billions every year, which is why we support the Invasive Species Inspectorate in carrying out their role to protect the nation’s biosecurity. Through our Invasive Non-Native Species Strategy, we remain committed to going even further to detect, protect and eradicate the threats they pose, while increasing co-ordination and co-operation with the public, land managers and businesses to deliver this.”
The Asian Hornet Watch app is available to download from the Apple and Android app stores.
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