In recent years, the UK has faced an increasing menace from an invasive species that has been causing quite a buzz – quite literally. The Asian Hornet, scientifically known as Vespa velutina nigrithorax, has been rapidly spreading its wings across the country, posing a significant threat to local ecosystems, biodiversity, and even human health. In this article, we will delve into the rise in numbers of Asian Hornets and the detrimental effects they have on our environment.

The Asian Hornet Invasion

The Asian hornet, originally native to Southeast Asia, found its way to Europe and first appeared in France in 2004. Since then, it has been steadily making its presence felt in the United Kingdom, with a sharp increase in sightings over the past month in particular.

These hornets are known for their distinctive appearance, with dark bodies and bright yellow legs. They are slightly smaller than the native European hornets but are just as fearsome. Asian Hornets are voracious predators, preying on insects such as honeybees, hoverflies, and other pollinators, causing considerable harm to local bee populations. This predatory behaviour disrupts the delicate balance of our ecosystems, as these insects play a crucial role in pollination and maintaining biodiversity.

Detrimental Effects on Biodiversity

The impact of Asian Hornets on local biodiversity is profound. They not only threaten honeybee colonies, but they also target other beneficial insects, such as butterflies and moths. This unrelenting predation can lead to a significant decline in the numbers of these vital pollinators, which, in turn, affects the reproduction of various plant species. Furthermore, the Asian Hornets’ ability to devastate local insect populations can have a cascading effect up the food chain, negatively impacting bird and bat populations that rely on insects as a primary food source.

Risk to Human Health

While the primary focus is often on the ecological consequences of Asian Hornet infestations, they also pose a direct threat to human health. These hornets are known to be more aggressive than their European counterparts when defending their nests. A sting from an Asian hornet can be painful and may lead to severe allergic reactions in some individuals. For those who are allergic to insect stings, such encounters can be life-threatening. Therefore, the presence of Asian hornets in areas frequented by humans is a cause for concern and requires immediate attention. It’s worth noting that in the U.S., Asian Hornets have also been called ‘Murder Hornets’.

Controlling the Invasion

Given the detrimental effects of Asian Hornets, it is crucial to take action to control their spread. Early detection and reporting of Asian Hornet sightings are essential. Their movement is being tracked by the U.K. Government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency, and sightings can be reported using a dedicated phone app. Further details about how to report sightings can be found here.

Professional pest control services can play a pivotal role in identifying and safely removing hornet nests, mitigating the impact on both the environment and public safety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise in numbers of Asian hornets in the UK is a concerning issue with far-reaching consequences. Their predatory behaviour threatens biodiversity, puts pollinators and local ecosystems at risk, and poses a direct threat to human health. Vigilance, early detection, and professional pest control services are crucial in managing this invasive species and minimising the detrimental effects it has on our environment and well-being.

In the face of the rising threat posed by Asian hornets, safeguarding our environment and well-being requires swift and professional action. If you’ve spotted signs of Asian hornet activity or suspect their presence in your vicinity, don’t hesitate to take action today. Our dedicated team of pest control experts is here to assist you in addressing this issue promptly and effectively. Whether you’re looking to report a sighting, request an inspection, or seek advice on managing Asian hornets, we’re just a call or a click away.  Contact us now via the contact form below or give us a call on 0800 148 8088, and let’s work together to combat this invasive menace.

As the sun-drenched days of summer gradually give way to the cooler hues of autumn, a new challenge emerges across the United Kingdom – the rise of the wasp population. Late summer has become synonymous with a surge in wasp activity, leading to increased concerns for homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and businesses alike. In this article, we delve into why wasp encounters become more prevalent during this time of the year, the reasons behind their growing numbers, and strategies to minimize their impact.

Late summer, spanning from August to early September, sees a remarkable uptick in wasp-related issues across the UK. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a relaxing evening on the patio, or even a casual stroll through the garden, wasps have a knack for making their presence known. Their insistent buzzing, scavenging behaviour, and potential for painful stings (or worse if you are allergic) often result in frustration and concern for those who simply want to enjoy the final days of warmth.

Despite the annoyances they cause us, wasps are actually beneficial, and according to the Natural History Museum, wasps in the UK consume around 14 million kilogrammes of insect prey, such as caterpillars and greenfly!

Several factors contribute to the rise of wasp activity during late summer:

1. Food Scarcity: As the summer season wanes, many of the natural food sources for wasps begin to dwindle. Nectar, their primary sustenance, becomes scarcer as flowers begin to fade. This scarcity drives wasps to seek alternative sources of nutrition, often leading them to sweet foods and beverages that humans enjoy.

2. Nest Maturity: Wasps establish their colonies in the early months of summer. By late summer, these colonies have matured and expanded significantly. This growth leads to higher demand for food to sustain the growing population within the nest.

3. Seasonal Change: The transition from summer to autumn signals to wasps that the colder months are approaching. This prompts them to intensify their search for nourishment to prepare for the winter hibernation period.

While wasps play a role in ecosystems as pollinators and predators of other insects, their presence can understandably cause discomfort and pose health risks due to their sting. To minimize their impact during late summer, consider these strategies:

1. Maintain Cleanliness: Wasps are attracted to food and drink residues. Keep outdoor spaces tidy and promptly clean up spills to reduce their attraction.

2. Secure Waste: Make sure rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids, and consider using wasp-proof containers to prevent these insects from accessing discarded food.

3. Use Traps: Commercial wasp traps can help capture and reduce the local population. Place them away from where you and your guests congregate.

4. Avoid Swatting: Quick movements and swatting can agitate wasps, increasing the likelihood of stings. Once a wasp does sting, pheromones are released, which attracts more wasps! It is always best to stay calm and move slowly when a wasp is nearby.

5. Seal up cracks and holes in your home: If wasps are becoming a problem within your home, make sure you seal up any cracks or holes, and any gaps around doors and windows. It might also be worthwhile checking your loft hatch for gaps, and exploring the loft in case a nest has been created there.

6. Professional Assistance: If you’re facing a particularly severe infestation or have concerns about wasp nests on your property, seek assistance from pest control professionals who can safely remove nests and offer expert advice. Infinity Home Service‘s pest controllers can assist you in supplying traps and giving advice on avoiding infestation, as well as removing nests if they are found.

Late summer may herald the rise of wasp activity, but armed with the knowledge of their behaviour and the appropriate strategies to mitigate their impact, you can still enjoy the outdoors without undue worry. By understanding the reasons behind their surge in numbers, practicing good sanitation habits, and employing preventative measures, you can ensure a more pleasant transition from summer to autumn, free from the constant buzz of these industrious insects.

Don’t let late-summer wasps take over your home! 🐝 Call us now on 0800 148 8088 or fill out our quick contact form below for expert wasp control and enjoy a sting-free season!