Bees, Hornets and Wasps
© Hotwells & District Allotments Ltd 2007-2021
Asian Hornets pose no greater risk to humans than bees or wasps but they do pose a risk to honey bees and
pollinating insects. It's essential to stop this insect establishing in the UK, and why you should report suspected
sightings.
When a sighting is confirmed, experts from the National Bee Unit (NBU) and the Animal and Plant Health Agency
(APHA) will work quickly to find and destroy any active nests in the area.
Description
Adult workers measuring from 25mm in length and queens measuring 30mm. It's abdomen is mostly black except
for it's fourth abdominal segment which is a yellow band located towards the rear. It has characteristical yellow legs
which accounts for why it is often called the yellow legged hornet and it's face is orange with two brownish red
compound eyes.
If you think you have seen an Asian Hornet, please go to this Government website where you can report the
sighting.
Bee Swarms
Honey bees swarm when the queen bee leaves the colony with a large
group of worker bees to establish a new colony. Occasionally a swarm may
settle near your plot (see pic). Should this happen you may need to contact
one of our assoication beekeepers so that the swarm can be safely dealt
with. Their contact details are:
John Holland on White City: 07843 734 742
Dick Berry on KL2: 01275 392865
Jenny Wakenshaw on WC: 01179 669822. Mobile 07816547886 or text.
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