After one of the largest ever Asian Hornet’s nests was found hanging from a ceiling in a house, a warning has been issued.
Asian hornets, (known as Vespa velutina nigrithorax), which are native to Southeast Asia have been found in a derelict house in St Brelades, a town located on the Channel Island in the United Kingdom.
Asian hornets are considered invasive due to their ability to displace local hornet populations and wreak havoc on ecosystems by attacking the honeybees population. Additionally, they can be very aggressive towards humans.
The first time this species found its way into Europe was through a nest hidden abroad a ship. Asian hornets were first spotted in the south of France from where they spread throughout the continent, including United Kingdom.
The Channel Islands, including St Brelades, are particularly susceptible to the presence of these hornets due to their proximity to mainland Europe.
A total of 171 have been found in St Brelades in the United Kingdom so far in 2023 compared to 100 at the same stage in 2022.
Authorities have concerns that their ability to keep this species out of the country is slipping away.
Warnings are issued for the citizens to be extra cautious in case they stumble upon a nest of Asian hornets.
The spread of these hornets is fast, so people should learn how to effectively handle such situations.
The most common places they can be found are:
– Nests in trees and shrubs
– Houses and buildings
– In orchards
– Anywhere that they can find a warm place to hide during the winter months.
If you stumble upon an Asian hornet nest, there are some thing to have in mind since they can get extremely aggressive in case their habitat is disturbed.
– Observe and Report: Never try to remove it all by yourself since that requires appropriate expertise. Don’t even disturb them, as they can easily attack you. Instead, inform the local authorities and provide them with the exact location. If you live in the United Kingdon, you should contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency. They possess the right equipment and resources for dealing with Asian hornets.
– Maintain Distance: Avoid getting near the nest because that can trigger an attack. In case you get attacked, have in mind that these insects’ sting is extremely painful.
– Educate Yourself: Learn more about this insects as that can help in case you come across with them.
– Protect Your Property: If you are aware of the existence of a nest near your residence, make sure you do all in your power to prevent them from getting indoors. Fix any small cracks and don’t keep the windows and doors open.
– Seek Professional Assistance: Always contact professional pest control service in case you see an Asian hornet nest. They are the ones who would take care of the problem most effectively.
