The UK is bracing for a potential invasion of Asian hornets this summer after sightings in the Channel Islands. The insects were spotted in Alderney and the village of L'Islet in Guernsey earlier this month, sparking fears that more could be blown into the country from mainland Europe.
The species first spread through Europe in 2004 after arriving in the south of France on a freight ship. They were first seen in the British Isles in late 2016 and increased in numbers in Southern England in 2021 after establishing themselves on Jersey and Guernsey.
Asian hornets pose a serious threat to humans with allergies, as a single sting can be fatal. They also endanger native species, particularly bees. Residents in the Channel Islands have been urged to remain vigilant.
Francis Russell, Asian hornet project co-ordinator, said: 'We think these are coming fresh from France. The wind is set to be north-easterly through the next week. We tend to get Asian hornets during north-easterly winds or just afterwards. I think this is the start, I think more will be found.'
In response, a spring queening project has been launched in Guernsey, with over 260 traps placed across the island to catch hornet queens before they can build nests. Experts note that the late spring sightings suggest the hornets are travellers from France rather than overwintering residents, offering some cause for optimism.
