A dead nest of the yellow-legged hornet has been discovered near Wrexham, marking the first confirmed finding of the invasive insect in Wales.
The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax), also known as the Asian hornet, is not native to the UK. Originally from Asia, it was first recorded in France in 2004 before spreading across much of Europe, including Spain, Belgium, Portugal, Italy, Switzerland and Germany.
The species poses a significant threat to honey bees and other pollinating insects, prompting authorities to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings. In England, the hornet was first detected in 2016, with action taken every year since to locate and destroy nests.
The Welsh Government has asked the National Bee Unit, part of the Animal and Plant Health Agency, to respond in line with the Asian Hornet Contingency Plan.
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said the unit’s experience would be vital in tackling the issue.
“The National Bee Unit has years of experience tracking and locating yellow-legged hornets, so their expertise will be invaluable in helping us take action against the insect in Wales,” he said.
“I’d like to thank beekeepers and members of the public who remain alert and continue to report suspected sightings. We need everyone to become familiar with what yellow-legged hornets look like, especially as the weather warms up into spring and summer.”
While queen hornets hibernate over winter, the insects are active from February to November and are most commonly seen from July onwards. Officials say using identification guides can help distinguish the yellow-legged hornet from similar-looking native insects.
Members of the public who believe they have spotted a yellow-legged hornet are urged to report it using the Asian Hornet Watch app, available on Apple and Android devices, or via an online reporting form. Reports should include a photograph and the location of the sighting.
Although yellow-legged hornets are not generally aggressive, people are advised not to approach or disturb nests, as the insects can become aggressive if threatened. Medical advice on hornet stings is available from the NHS.
Further information and identification guidance can be found on the National Bee Unit’s yellow-legged hornet webpages.
Photo: Yellow-legged hornet – courtesy of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Crown Copyright
