Invasive Asian hornets are heading to the UK, experts warn. This possible event may have detrimental impact, thus it is very important to keep these insects out of the garden to prevent potential hazards.
Asian Hornets, What Are They?
The Asian hornet or Vespa velutina has a dark brown velvety abdomen with one yellow or orange segment and yellow streaks on its legs. The face is also colored yellow and the head black.
Asian hornets measure about 30 millimeters for queens and 25 millimeters for workers.
Unlike European hornets, Asian hornets usually fly in the day and are rather inactive during the night. The insects are commonly seen from April to November, but are specifically active from August to September.
Colonies only last for one season and the fertilized queens are the only ones that go through hibernation.
Misinformation About Asian Hornets
With the news of Asian hornets possibly invading the UK, media reports convey an image of terror and danger to the public. Reports say Asian hornets are bigger and more aggressive than those of European descent. However, experts say that is not exactly the case. In fact, Dr. Gavin Broad from the National History Museum says Asian hornets are smaller than the European native Vespa crabro.
"It has frequently been confused with the Giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia), which has not reached Europe and is very unlikely to," says Dr. Broad.
He adds that Asian hornets are not anymore dangerous than the native ones, which are widespread in the southern part of England.
Protecting Gardens, Protecting Selves
The Asian hornets' sting is not as painful as that of the European hornets. Nevertheless, people should still take precaution as stings may cause what experts call anaphylactic shock, which entails immediate medical care.
The nests of Asian hornets are shaped like a basketball and appear to be made of gray paper. Sometimes, these nests can be found in eaves or the part of the roof that overhangs the walls. The greatest mistake people can make is to disturb these nests.
Sometimes, people may also accidentally bump into a tree where the nests are situated. Asian hornets treat these actions as attacks against them. When a hornet or nest is spotted, it's best to just calmly walk away. Don't panic when the insects buzz or pass by. Most importantly, don't scream or make boisterous reactions.
The UK government and other environmental organizations encourage people to report Asian hornet sightings, if there are any. One agency where people can report is the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), which in turn would verify if the nest belongs to Asian hornets. The group will then destroy this nest once confirmed. People may also report to the Bees, Wasps and Ants Recording Society and the Non-Native Species Secretariat.
The key now to keep gardens safe is to keep a keen eye on possible nests and report promptly. The insects are yet to arrive in UK, but with reports that they can kill about 50 honeybees per day once they reach Britain, it is best to be protected.
Photo : Danel Solabarrieta | Flickr
