Two Asian hornet nests have been destroyed after being found at Rye Harbour earlier this month. The insects, which are described as “an incredibly destructive invasive species”, were discovered on September 7 and 9. Asian hornets present one of the biggest threats to UK honey bees and other pollinators in a generation.
Representatives from the National Bee Unit were called to Rye Harbour after a nest was discovered by a member of the public. A second nest was found nearby two days later. Both were taken away and destroyed. DNA from the hornets is being examined to see if the Rye Harbour insects are related to others found in Kent and East Sussex.
Asian hornets, which can become aggressive when disturbed, have yellow legs and local people are being urged to report any other sightings. A spokesperson for the British Beekeepers’ Association says the insects pose a big danger to honeybees. “Asian hornets are an incredibly destructive invasive species that specialise in preying on honey bee hives – one hornet alone can kill up to 50 honey bees per day.”
According to the BBA, Asian hornets have a stinger up to 3.5mm long, which they can use multiple times. One nest can produce 350+ queens, some of which will begin new colonies the following year. They were first discovered in the UK in 2016. In 2023 there were 72 nests found in 56 locations – more than the previous six years combined.
More information about Asian hornets and how to report them are on the BBA website
Image Credits: John De Carteret , David Walker/NBU , BBA .