Asian hornets are an invasive species originally from Southeast Asia. Also called yellow-legged hornets, they pose a serious threat to native wildlife, especially honey bees and other pollinators. People across the UK have been reporting a surge in the number of Asian hornets with reports claiming a rise of at least 150 percent in a year.
With experts warning that 2025 could be the worst year yet for Asian hornets in the UK, homeowners have been urged to follow one simple thing that can keep them away from the house. Sian Curtis, a Which? Trusted Trader and owner of Miss Catch’em Pest Control Ltd, explained: “The key difference is the yellow-tipped legs – they’re quite distinctive. They also have a single orange band on their abdomen.”
According to Ms Curtis, pet owners should clear away food bowls promptly, especially if they contain meat residue.
Asian hornets are drawn to sweet liquids and meat-based foods, which are often found in pet bowls. If disturbed while feeding, they can become defensive and sting. Clearing bowls helps reduce the chance of hornets lingering near homes or gardens.
People are encouraged to report sightings of Asian hornets via the official ‘Asian Hornet Watch’ app or by emailing the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology.
According to the National Bee Unit—part of the Government’s Animal & Plant Health Agency—there have been 73 confirmed sightings of Asian hornets in the UK by the end of July, marking a sharp rise from 28 during the same period last year. That’s an increase of over 160 percent.
While Asian hornets pose a significant threat to UK wildlife by preying on bees and other vital pollinators, they are not typically dangerous to humans.
Ms Curtis explained: “If you disturb a nest, they can become threatened. It’s only then that they would sting you. Although it hurts, it’s not usually an issue unless you have an allergy or are stung multiple times.
“If you do have an allergy to wasp or hornet stings, seek urgent medical advice.”
Kate Wilson, head of the National Bee Unit, said: “Yellow-legged hornets cause significant damage to native pollinators, including our much-loved honeybees. That’s why [we take] swift action to stamp out the threat posed by yellow-legged hornets, all as part of ongoing monitoring and surveillance work to protect our pollinators.
“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue to report any potential sightings using the Asian Hornet Watch app and online.”