Warning over surge in population of Asian hornets after ‘unprecedented’ early sightings
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Experts are sounding the alarm over Asian hornets. Here’s why
- Experts are warning of a potential surge in the UK's Asian hornet population following an unprecedented number of early sightings in Jersey.
- Sightings of queen Asian hornets in Jersey are up over 1,000 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.
- Asian hornets, an invasive species, pose a significant threat to native pollinators like honeybees, and are capable of killing up to 50 bees per day.
- Research indicates Asian hornets consume a wide variety of insects, including key crop pollinators, further impacting ecosystems already under stress.
- The hornets' spread across Europe has already devastated bee colonies and reduced honey production in some regions.