The Asian hornet is a large wasp which is poised to invade Britain. If it gains a foothold it will be bad for honey bees, native insects and pose a threat to human health. August and September are the months when it is most likely to be seen. It is relatively easy to identify and also makes large distinctive nests (often high up in trees). The Government takes this issue seriously and has drawn up a plan to try to eradicate this species before it can establish in Britain. To do this, we need to find out immediately if it is spotted in this country. If you think you have seen this species please report your sighting straight away via the Alert system:

alert_nonnative@ceh.ac.uk

Alert Poster:
https://secure.fera.defra.gov.uk/nonnativespecies/downloadDocument.cfm?id=859

ID sheet:
https://secure.fera.defra.gov.uk/beebase/downloadDocument.cfm?id=698

Information sheet:
https://secure.fera.defra.gov.uk/beebase/downloadDocument.cfm?id=402

Asian Hornet Information page:
https://secure.fera.defra.gov.uk/beebase/index.cfm?pageid=208