Asian Hornet

For general information about the Asian Hornet see https://www.nationalbeeunit.com/diseases-and-pests/asian-hornet/

Although much of the attention this spring will be directed towards the South Coast we must be aware that in 2023 a nest was located in Hull. We are at potential risk of accidental imports from East Coast ports being moved along the M62.

What should we be doing now?

• Ensure that you have uploaded the Asian Hornet Watch app to your phone and encourage friends, relatives and work colleagues to do the same. The app provides confirmation and location of suspected sightings and then action by the NBU if appropriate.
  
• If you have contacts with organisations that would display information or who have a presence on social media an information poster for the public can be found here: nnssalert_poster_vespa_velutina_a4-1
• Bait stations and a supply of attractant will be available at our March and April meetings. These will provide an early warning of the presence of the AH. Suspected sightings can then be reported via the app.
• Widespread trapping is not part of our response at the current level of threat. Five members of the Association will be using selective traps. The risk of even ‘selective’ trapping is that of killing non-target insect species.
• At our March and April meetings you will also have the chance to sign up to join the HBKA ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ group. We will keep in touch and provide updates using WhatsApp. You may be asked to verify a sighting when the information sent by a member of the public via the Asian Hornet Watch app is unclear.
• Hopefully, we will not encounter the AH in Calderdale this year but we need plans in place for its (inevitable) arrival.