A warning has been issued for the public to remain vigilant after sightings of invasive Asian hornets in Kent and Dorset. The sightings come after an Asian hornet was spotted in a cauliflower delivery in Northumberland.
The invasive species was spotted in Folkestone on 13 April, but flew off before it could be captured. Monitoring traps have been deployed in the area.
The British Beekeepers Association said: "The details from the report suggest this was a single hornet incursion.
"Beekeepers in the area and volunteer Asian hornet teams will be asked to maintain vigilance and monitor for Asian hornet."
An Asian hornet was also spotted on the deck of a ferry from Poole to Cherbourg on 10 April 2023.
The British Beekeeper's Association says it has set traps in Poole and Hamworthy in order to capture any that may be in the area.
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive species in Britain and is a predator of bees.
You should report any possible sightings of Asian hornets, so experts can take quick and effective action to eradicate them.
Use the Asian Hornet Watch app for iPhone and Android to record and report any sightings.
Alternatively, send your photos and videos by email to: alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk.
British Pest Control Association (BPCA) has produced a guide outlining the differences between hornets, wasps, bees and hoverflies.
Download this guide
Source: Online