Concerned by the continuing threat of the invasive, non-native Yellow-legged Asian Hornet the British Beekeepers' Association is urging everyone to stay alert, get informed and be ready to report any sightings.

This time of year can start to see the emergence of Yellow-legged Asian hornet queens from hibernation. After a record number of sightings in 2025 we need everyone to remain vigilant for new nests. Spring vigilance and early destruction of small nests can help protect pollinators. 

     

Photo credit:  John De Carteret 

Queens need to feed quickly after coming out of hibernation, flowers such as Camellias are popular. Small nests, often starting the size of a golf ball and growing to the size of a melon can appear in dry outbuildings. Take a photo of the nest with an insect on it (if safe to do so) and please report.

 

Defra and the Fera Science Ltd have identified areas where there may be a higher risk of overwintering Yellow-legged Asian Hornets in England based on previous nest finds.  In 2025, a total of 32 late nests were destroyed in England and these areas are considered to be of higher risk.

   

All potential sightings should continue to be reported so experts can take quick and effective action.  The best way is to use the 'Asian Hornet Watch' app where the home screen allows users to check similar species and report a sighting.  A photo is requested as key to identification. Date and location and brief comments can be included. Reporting can lead to investigation and nest destruction which is vital for eradication. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices. 

Photos and videos can also be emailed to: [email protected].  Please ensure you include full location and contact details as well as a photo. 

Even in regions without current sightings, vigilance is vital. A single queen can establish a nest, leading to thousands of hornets and multiple queens next season.

Would you like to get more involved?
Widespread monitoring, particularly in high-risk areas is needed to manage Yellow-legged Asian hornet incursions.  Members of the public can contribute significantly by monitoring for foraging hornets and reporting sightings.  If you would like to help please read the National Bee Unit's  'Yellow-Legged Asian Hornet Monitoring' document for further information and contact your local BBKA branch to ask how you can get involved.  Your nearest branch can be located via our website map.

Further Yellow-legged Asian Hornet information