ASIAN HORNETS

The Asian hornet is smaller than a European hornet (slightly larger than a common wasp) and is darker in colour but with a more powerful sting.

It's not a native species of the UK (it originated in East Asia) but has slowly migrated across Europe, probably in the shipment of goods. It poses a threat to wildlife and alarmingly it predates bees and can easily destroy a colony, threatening a key part of our eco-system.

The public are encouraged to report sightings of Asian hornets to the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.


Asian hornet
Asian hornet
There were several of these hornets present when I took photos of them feeding from these roadside plants (unknown species) in NW Spain. I didn't realise what these insects were until a few days afterwards. I wonder if I would have risked being stung if I'd known. They say ignorance is bliss!
Asian hornet
vespa velutina
 Asian hornet
Asian hornet title= Asian hornet Asian hornet


Possible nest site
Asian hornet
A long-range shot for context. This nest was found in a National Park, south of Ovideo, NW Spain. I am not certain it's an Asian hornet's nest but surely a strong candidate.
Asian hornet
Close-up shows gaping hole near top of huge nest. This often results from an invasion of a nest by a honey buzzard.