Asian Hornets Survive UK Winter for the First Time: Concern Over Invasive Species Increase

Asian hornets, known for their threat to honey bees and insect pollinators, have been confirmed to have survived the winter in the UK for the first time, raising concerns over the possibility of them establishing a permanent presence.

While there is no evidence of an established population, officials are on high alert for the insects during the upcoming summer.

The recent genetic analysis conducted by the National Bee Unit showed that three Asian hornet queens were offspring from a nest that was destroyed in November 2023, in the areas of Kent and Rye.

The British Bee Keepers Association, along with the department for DEFRA, has ramped up efforts to track and eradicate these invasive hornets before they have a chance to grow their population.

The DNA analysis confirmed that these invasive Asian hornets can pose a significant threat to the UK’s biodiversity and native pollinators were they to stay and thrive in the country.

The Somerset Beekeepers Association has urged the public to report any sightings of the Asian hornet using the Asian Hornet Watch app, as these insects can be devastating to crucial native pollinators.

France, a country where the Asian hornets are estimated to have around 500,000 nests, has already seen the destructive impact these insects can have on honey bee populations.

Last year, the National Bee Unit destroyed 72 nests in 56 locations, with most being in Kent, signifying the urgency of controlling the spread of these invasive hornets.

Overall, the increase in sightings and confirmed overwintering of Asian hornets in the UK has sparked a heightened sense of alertness among wildlife conservation groups and beekeeping associations.